#1 for weeks of January 19, 26th, and February 2, 1959.
If you don't include "The Chipmunk Song", which started its top of the chart run in late 1958, and continued into this new year, then The Platters' cover of the old show-tune, "Smoke Get In Your Eyes", is the first #1 hit exclusive to 1959.
It's also the softest and most lush sounding ballad so far on this list. It certainly is the antithesis of Rock And Roll and 1950's pop music in general. Due to the fact it is a cover from the 1933 musical, Roberta, it sounds as if it could have easily been a hit in the 1940's. To someone of the post 1980's generation, the song has little relevance, and after listen one, I wasn't hooked.
However, upon re-listens I started to hear the song with a more open mind. For one, lead singer Tony Williams' voice takes this soft pop song and gives it a lot of robust character. It alternates between a romantic croon and a vigorous cry. Unique voices, no matter the genre, always make any song stand out in my opinion, and hearing this song performed with such character is a big plus.
Music-wise, it is strictly orchestral, with the only percussion being a snare drum with brush sticks. Harp, strings, stand up bass, and piano, are the most audible instruments. It certainly gives the song more of a timeless Broadway feel, as opposed to a 1950's soft R&B feel. Although the doo-wop inspired vocals give the tune a bit more character of its own as well.
Final Verdict - This is the softest and most mellow song on the list so far. Had this song come out in any other later time period, I couldn't see it even remotely considered to be a #1 hit. However, the lead vocal performance is full of emotion, and the group as a whole does a good job with their rendition of the tune. Give it a listen or two when it's late in the evening and you're looking for a quiet, peaceful, relaxing night.
Coming Up Next - "Stagger Lee" By Lloyd Price.
Until Next Time - Dr. Rock -
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