Straighten Up and Fly Right

About

Written by Nat King Cole and lyricist Irving Mills in 1943, Straighten Up and Fly Right was inspired by a sermon Cole’s father once gave about a buzzard and a monkey. The fable became a witty metaphor for self-discipline and clever survival — the monkey escaping the buzzard’s tricks by turning the tables on him. Robbie Williams’ version, arranged by Steve Sidwell for Swing When You’re Winning, captures the song’s buoyant humour and irresistible swing with crisp brass, handclaps and a touch of mischief.

Williams performs it with playful swagger, leaning into the conversational phrasing and scat-like rhythms that made Cole’s original such a landmark of early jazz. “Your story’s so touching, but it sounds just like a lie,” he croons, flashing the charm and cheek that define his swing performances. The recording became one of the album’s most joyous moments — brisk, witty and perfectly suited to his showman instincts.

It’s become something of a personal motto for me. I love that line, ‘Your story’s so touching, but it sounds just like a lie.’Robbie Williams

Featuring the veteran rhythm players of Williams’ Los Angeles orchestra, the track evokes the effortless swing of 1940s big-band records while retaining a modern sparkle. Its infectious energy made it a standout in his later live sets, particularly on the Swings Both Ways tour. Straighten Up and Fly Right remains one of the most exuberant examples of Williams’ affinity for jazz storytelling — a timeless lesson delivered with a wink and a grin.