Recorded - August-November, 1964
Released - November 28, 1964
#1 for weeks of February 6 and 13, 1965.
Sometimes, I let nostalgia get in the way of giving a review an accurate rating. When I first heard a greatest hits album by The Righteous Brothers nearly 20 years ago, I was mesmerized by the sounds contained within and instantly became a fan. However, this bias certainly is justified as "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'", the first song I ever heard by them, is already considered by many to be one of the greatest pop songs of all time, and it's certainly among the best of the 1960's.
The Righteous Brothers consisted of blue eyed soul singers Bill Medley and the late Bobby Hatfield. Their first single, "Little Latin Lupe Lu", was released in May of 1963. The song is certainly atypical of most of their well known hits due to the fact that the song features a more R&B and soul influenced sound. After releasing numerous singles through '63 and '64, they were given the song "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'", written by Phil Spector, Barry Mann, and Cynthia Weil. In other words, it was perhaps the last big stand of the Wall of Sound and Brill Building songwriting teams in a rapidly changing music scene. And oh boy did they strike gold!
Just listening to those opening few seconds, you hear Bill Medley's trademark deep vocals mixed with one of the best wall of sound music tracks ever recorded. To this day, I hear something new in the music, be it the bells, or the subtle backing vocals from a choir. (Make sure of course that if you choose to hear this song, it's this original version and not the pale and lifeless re-recording done years later!)
Bobby Hatfield doesn't get as big a chance to shine in this song, (Although he certainly would have that chance in "Unchained Melody"). When he does come in on lead vocals in the song's bridge, the song gets taken to a much higher plain. Going from a simple subdued music and vocal part to hearing the two Righteous Brothers absolutely giving it their all vocally, it's downright nirvana to hear on headphones.
The Righteous Brothers would continue to enjoy success throughout 1965 and even get another #1 in 1966. By this time, their association with Phil Spector was over and Bill Medley produced the music himself. We'll cover their next #1 when we get to 1966.
Final Verdict - "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'" is an absolutely breathtaking masterpiece. Magnificently sung, with an enchanting music track to go with it. Not only well-deserving of hit status, but also well-deserved to be considered one of the best songs ever made.
Coming Up Next - "This Diamond Ring" by Gary Lewis & The Playboys.
Until Next Time - "Don't, don't, don't", go away, stay tuned for the next Dr. Rock review -
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