#1 for weeks of June 6, 13, and 20th, 1964.
Most girl group songs of the 1960's were musically very richly produced tunes with a wide array of instrumentation and sounds contained within. The biggest case in point is just about anything Phil Spector recorded in the first half of the 1960's. On the other hand, there are quite a few girl group tunes from this same time period that were much more minimalistic, with more of an emphasis on the vocal arrangement. "Chapel Of Love" by New Orleans girl group The Dixie Cups is an example of the latter.
Co-written by two building songwriters (Jeff Barry and Ellie Greenwich) and Phil Spector, "Chapel Of Love" had already been recorded the previous year by Darlene Love. Working with producer Joe Jones, The Dixie Cups recorded their own version of the song in 1964 which became their first and only #1 hit. While the group would have some minor hits afterwards including another 1964 hit "People Say", they would be unable to match the massive success that "Chapel" gave them.
I will be frank, Chapel Of Love has always come across to me as just a wee bit too cutesy. After all, this song lyrically deals with a very picture perfect vision of marriage in a chapel. Some of this lyrical sweetness even comes across in the music such as the occasional bells that are played when certain lines pertaining to marriage are sung. Actually, that's quite a nice touch so perhaps I'll take all this nitpicking back...
Don't get me wrong though, I certainly don't dislike this song, not even remotely. I for one can overlook its lyrical theme which really doesn't do much for me. I feel that it is because of the less obtrusive musical arrangement that the song stands out quite a bit compared to other highly produced girl group songs. For the record though "People Say", in my opinion, is not only their better song but the one that deserves the most posthumous recognition.
Oh, and once again I must mention a reoccurring pet peeve with these 1960's songs and that's re-recorded versions. There are quite a few studio versions of this song floating around the internet. However, only one is the original 1964 version so make sure it's that one you listen to and not one of the soulless 1970's/80's remade versions!
Final Verdict - A nice delicate musical and vocal arrangement. Because of its lyrics, some may roll their eyes, but if you can overlook the words, you'll surely enjoy a listen.
Coming Up Next - "A World Without Love" by Peter And Gordon.
Until Next Time - I'm Rev. Rock of the chapel of rock -
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