Song meaning of Wives and Lovers by Frank Sinatra & Count Basie

The song "Wives and Lovers" by Frank Sinatra and Count Basie presents a traditional view of gender roles and relationships, reflecting the societal norms of the time it was written. The lyrics suggest that women should always prioritize their appearance and demeanor to please their husbands, as demonstrated by lines such as "Hey, little girl, comb your hair, fix your make-up" and "Don't stand him up, with your hair still in curlers, you may not see him again." 

The song emphasizes the importance of wives being lovers as well, stating that they should run to their husbands' arms the moment they come home. This reinforces the notion that maintaining romantic and physical intimacy is a key responsibility of wives. The lyrics also express a warning that husbands might seek attention from other women if their wives fail to meet their expectations.

Overall, the message conveyed by the lyrics of "Wives and Lovers" is that women should strive to please their husbands by always looking their best and prioritizing their marriage's romantic aspects. It reflects the traditional gender roles and expectations prevalent during the time the song was released, highlighting the pressures placed on women to maintain the happiness and fidelity of their husbands.