The Ballad of High Noon The Ballad of High Noon “The Ballad of High Noon” (or “Do Not Forsake Me, O My Darlin’”) is a popular song published in 1952, with music by Dimitri Tiomkin and lyrics by Ned Washington. It is the theme song of the movie "High Noon", sung over the opening credits by Tex Ritter, with its tune repeated throughout the film. It was awarded the 1952 Academy Award for Best Original Song, and was performed that night for the Academy by Ritter. The song is about the film's main character, Will Kane (played by Gary Cooper), and the moral dilemma of
The Ballad of High Noon this is only obvious on repeat viewings. In the context of film music, "The Ballad of High Noon" is acclaimed not merely for its musical integration with "High Noon"'s score, but also for expounding lyrically on the themes of honor and obligation which define the film. It is placed at #25 on "AFI's 100 Years...100 Songs". Members of the Western Writers of America chose it as one of the Top 100 Western songs of all time. The Ballad of High Noon “The Ballad of High Noon” (or “Do Not Forsake Me, O My Darlin’”) is a popular song published in