The song is sometimes credited as "traditional", or ascribed (apparently in error) to the French writers Henri Lemarchand and Joseph Bouillon after it was recorded by Josephine Baker.

The song seems to have first been recorded (as "Tomato") in New York in 1949, by singer June Nelson, with her piano and trio, and with Manning credited as the writer.

[1][2] The song was then recorded in 1952 in London, by American singer Marie Bryant, accompanied by the Mike McKenzie Quintet featuring saxophonist Bertie King.

[7][8] Josephine Baker recorded the song in 1958, and it was released on her album Paris Mes Amours.

Produced by Arthur "Duke" Reid on his Treasure Isle label, and typical of the rocksteady style, Dillon's recording became a big local hit and was also released in the UK.