Straight Down the Middle

Written by the legendary team of Sammy Cahn and Jimmy Van Heusen for Bing Crosby’s 1958 album of the same name, “Straight Down the Middle” served as a playful anthem for Crosby’s famous “Clambake” golf tournament. The song captures the self-deprecating humor of the amateur golfer, with Cahn’s lyrics dryly celebrating a ball that manages to stay in the fairway—even if it “bounced off nine” to get there.

The track perfectly encapsulates the mid-century “swing” era, blending Van Heusen’s brassy, effortless arrangement with Cahn’s witty observations on the frustrations and joys of the game. It remains the definitive musical tribute to the sport, personifying Crosby’s public persona as a casual, golf-obsessed sportsman whose optimistic pursuit of the perfect drive resonated with millions of weekend hackers.