Che bambola!

Fred Buscaglione's song 'Che bambola!' is a delightful and humorous narrative that captures a whimsical encounter on a late-night street. The song, which translates to 'What a Doll!' in English, is a playful ode to a stunning woman the narrator meets after leaving his usual café. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of this woman, describing her as a 'model 103' and a 'cumulative of curves,' emphasizing her physical allure and the narrator's immediate infatuation.

The song's humor shines through in the interaction between the narrator and the woman. When he tries to flirt with her, she initially dismisses him, comparing him to a ragamuffin. The situation takes a comedic turn when she, in a defensive stance reminiscent of the boxing champion Rocky, lands a punch that sends him reeling into a lamppost. This unexpected twist adds a layer of slapstick comedy to the song, highlighting the woman's strength and the narrator's surprise.

Despite the initial rejection, the song ends on a tender note. The woman, alarmed by her own actions, becomes concerned for the narrator and eventually gives him a kiss, which he had been seeking all along. This resolution adds a touch of romance to the otherwise humorous and light-hearted narrative. Buscaglione's charismatic delivery and the catchy melody make 'Che bambola!' a memorable and entertaining piece that captures the playful spirit of Italian popular music in the mid-20th century.