“My Way” is popularized by Frank Sinatra, but who wrote the song? “My Way” uses the melody of the French song “Comme d’habitude” composed by Claude François and Jacques Revaux, with original French lyrics by Claude François. The English lyrics were written by Paul Anka. This article explains the chain of authorship, the 1969 recording deal, and how Sinatra’s version created enduring confusion about who actually wrote “My Way.”
Origins of the Musical Source
Before Paul Anka wrote the English words, “My Way” began as a French song. Understanding this origin is essential to mapping the song’s true authorship.
Comme d’habitude: the French precursor
In 1967, French singer-songwriter Claude François co-wrote the music and lyrics of “Comme d’habitude” with Jacques Revaux (music) and Claude François (lyrics). The song was a hit in France and caught the attention of musician and songwriter Paul Anka.
Paul Anka’s transformation
In 1969, Paul Anka acquired the rights to “Comme d’habitude” and rewrote the lyrics entirely in English, creating the version that would become “My Way.” Anka tailored the song for Frank Sinatra, who recorded it that same year with conductor Don Costa. While the melody and much of the musical structure remained the work of François and Revaux, the definitive English-language lyrics that define Sinatra’s version are Paul Anka’s.
Credits and Key Details
Because the song was adapted from an existing French tune, the writing credits reflect both the original composers and the new lyricist. The following table summarizes the key authorship and rights details associated with “My Way”.
| Item | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Original French song | “Comme d’habitude” (1967) | Copyright and publishing records |
| Music composers | Claude François and Jacques Revaux | Broadcast and publishing databases |
| Original French lyricist | Claude François | Official releases and interviews |
| English lyricist for “My Way” | Paul Anka (1969) | Contracts, interviews, publishing archives |
| First high-profile recording | Frank Sinatra, 1969 | Label catalog and session logs |
| Key adaptation figure | Quincy Jones (producer of Sinatra’s version) | Production credits |
Common Questions About Authorship
Because Sinatra’s recording dominates public memory, many people assume he wrote the song himself or that it was entirely an American creation. These points clarify common misunderstandings.
- Frank Sinatra did not compose the music or write the original French lyrics.
- Paul Anka did not compose the melody; he wrote new English lyrics to an existing tune.
- Claude François and Jacques Revaux hold joint credit for the music and original French lyrics.
- Quincy Jones produced the iconic Sinatra recording, which helped cement the song’s status.
Why the Confusion Persists
The prominence of Sinatra’s version, combined with the lyrics being written expressly for him, creates a perception that he or his team authored the entire work. In reality, “My Way” is a cross-cultural adaptation in which Paul Anka played the pivotal role of transforming a French hit into an English-language standard associated forever with Sinatra.
Modern Interpretations and Covers
Because the underlying melody is in the public domain in many contexts and the credits are clearly documented, “My Way” has been covered by numerous artists. Each cover references the same chain of authorship: François and Revaux for music, Anka for English lyrics, and Sinatra for the definitive vocal performance.
Summary
To answer who wrote “My Way” for Frank Sinatra directly: Paul Anka wrote the English lyrics used in Sinatra’s recording, adapting the music and French lyrics of Claude François and Jacques Revaux. Understanding this distinction separates common legend from verified authorship and helps clarify the song’s true creative lineage.