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"How Long Has This Been Going On?" was composed by George Gershwin with lyrics by Ira Gershwin. Originally written for the 1927 musical Funny Face, the song was dropped during tryouts and later incorporated into the 1928 musical Rosalie, where it was performed by Bobbe Arnst.

The song is a 32-bar AABA ballad, typically played in G major. The lyric charmingly portrays the surprise and delight of a first romantic kiss, contrasted with the mundane kisses of childhood — a theme delivered in Ira Gershwin's characteristically conversational style. Melodically, the tune is graceful and expressive, with a gentle arc that perfectly supports the lyric's emotional progression. The harmony, while accessible, contains refined touches, particularly in the bridge, where subtle modulations heighten the sense of romantic awakening. It works beautifully as both a vocal ballad and an instrumental vehicle.

Lee Wiley's 1939 recording helped rescue the song from obscurity, and Peggy Lee's 1941 version with Benny Goodman brought it to a wider audience. Ella Fitzgerald's rendition on Ella Fitzgerald Sings the George and Ira Gershwin Song Book (1959) is considered among the finest vocal interpretations.