'That Old Black Magic' was originally written by Harold Arlen with lyrics by Johnny Mercer, and it first premiered in 1942. The song quickly became a standard in the Great American Songbook, characterized by its lush orchestration and swing rhythm. Glenn Miller and His Orchestra recorded their version in 1943, which helped solidify the song's place in the big band era. The arrangement featured Miller's signature sound, combining brass and woodwinds with a smooth, swinging rhythm that was emblematic of the time. The release came during World War II, a period when the big band sound was at its peak and served as a source of comfort and entertainment for both soldiers and civilians alike.
The lyrics of 'That Old Black Magic' explore themes of love and the intoxicating power of romance. Lines such as “That old black magic has me in its spell” convey the idea of being enchanted or entranced by a lover, suggesting an almost supernatural quality to the affection one feels. The metaphor of "black magic" implies a sense of danger and allure, portraying love as both a delightful and potentially perilous experience. The song captures the bittersweet nature of love, where pleasure and pain coexist, making it a timeless reflection on human emotions.