Sutton Foster was born on March 18, 1975, in Statesboro, Georgia, and is known as an actress, singer, and dancer.
She won two big awards (called Tony Awards) for her singing and acting in Broadway shows: for playing Millie in Thoroughly Modern Millie in 2002 and Reno in Anything Goes in 2011.
In addition to awards, Sutton has worked in many other popular Broadway shows, including Little Women, The Drowsy Chaperone, Shrek The Musical, and Violet.
About the Song
Not for the Life of Me is a fun is a lively song in which Sutton Foster plays Millie, a girl who leaves her small town for big-city New York. The song shows her courage as she chooses a new path to chase a new life.
Through her words, you can feel Millie’s mix of fear and excitement about her new start, making it her standout moment to win her first big award for playing Millie.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | June 11, 2002 |
| Album | Thoroughly Modern Millie (Original Broadway Cast Recording) (2002) |
| Writers | Dick Scanlan & Jeanine Tesori |
| Producers | Jay David Saks |
Not for the Life of Me Lyrics by Sutton Foster
MILLIE DILLMOUNT
I studied all the pictures in magazines and books
I memorized the subway map too
It’s one block north to Macy’s and two to Brothers Brooks
Manhattan, I prepared for you
You certainly are diff’rent from what they have back home
Where nothing’s over three stories high
And no one’s in a hurry or wants to roam
But I do, though they wonder why
They said I would soon be good and lonely
They said I would sing the homesick blues
So I always have this ticket in my pocket
A ticket home in my pocket
To do with as I choose
Burn the bridge, bet the store
Baby’s coming home no more
Not for the life of me
Break the lock, post my bail
Done my time, I’m out of jail
Not for the life of me
A life that’s gotta be more than a one-light town
Where the light is always red
Gotta be more than an old ghost town
Where the ghost ain’t even dead
Clap-a-your hands, just-a-because
Don’t you know that where I am ain’t where I was?
Not for the life of me
Boh-doh-dee-oh
Not for the life of
Not for the life of
Not for the life…of…me!
Similar Songs Like Not for the Life of Me
Here are some similar songs by Sutton Foster, based on her style, that you might like:
- “I Get a Kick Out of You“: A fun, clever song that Sutton performs with her special spark. It makes you smile while showing off her humor and grace in a way only she can pull off.
- “Sunshine on My Shoulders“: This song feels personal where she is showing that there’s more to her than just the big Broadway numbers we know her for.
- “Gimme Gimme“: It is a song in which Millie talks about her deep wish for someone to love her, not just her money.
- ”Show Off”: In this song, she shines as someone who claims she’s shy while clearly loving every second in the spotlight.
Similar Artists Like Sutton Foster
The following artists are similar to Sutton Foster, along with their genres and top albums:
- Kristin Chenoweth
Genre: Broadway, Classical Crossover, Pop
Notable Albums: Let Yourself Go, For the Girls - Idina Menzel
Genre: Broadway, Pop, Adult Contemporary
Notable Albums: I Stand, Holiday Wishes - Laura Benanti
Genre: Musical Theatre, Cabaret, Jazz
Notable Albums: In Constant Search of the Right Kind of Attention, Laura Benanti (Live at 54 Below) - Sierra Boggess
Genre: Musical Theatre, Classical
Notable Albums: Awakening: Live at 54 Below, Love Never Dies
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is this Song Considered a Standout Number in the Show?
It’s the opening solo and immediately showcases Millie’s personality. Sutton Foster’s performance made it especially memorable, helping launch her Broadway stardom.
Is There a Deeper Meaning Behind Millie’s Decision to Leave Home?
Yes, beyond seeking adventure, Millie’s decision reflects a broader shift in women’s roles during the 1920s. She wanted financial independence and control over her life, which was a bold idea at the time.
Does Not for The Life of Me Have a Reprise?
Yes, this song has a Reprise version.
