“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
In the early 1960s, a young Dionne Warwick was introduced to a song that would become a cornerstone of her career. Composed by the legendary duo Burt Bacharach and Hal David, “Anyone Who Had a Heart” not only showcased Warwick’s vocal prowess but also marked a significant moment in pop music history.
About The Composition
- Title: Anyone Who Had a Heart
- Composer: Burt Bacharach (music) and Hal David (lyrics)
- Premiere Date: November 1963
- Album: Anyone Who Had a Heart
- Genre: Soul, Pop
Background
“Anyone Who Had a Heart” was crafted specifically for Dionne Warwick in 1963. During a rehearsal in Bacharach’s Manhattan apartment, the song was presented to Warwick in an unfinished form. Bacharach had composed a complex score that naturally shifted time signatures, while David had only partially completed the lyrics. Warwick’s enthusiasm for the piece motivated David to finalize the lyrics during that session. The song’s intricate structure and Warwick’s emotive delivery resulted in a recording that resonated with audiences worldwide. Upon its release, the song achieved significant success, reaching the Top Ten in the United States, Canada, Spain, the Netherlands, South Africa, Belgium, and Australia.
Musical Style
The song is distinguished by its unconventional time signatures, seamlessly transitioning between 4/4, 5/4, and even incorporating a 7/8 bar. This fluidity was not a deliberate experiment but rather an organic expression of Bacharach’s compositional style. The arrangement features a poignant interplay between piano and orchestral elements, creating a dramatic backdrop for Warwick’s soulful vocals. This complexity adds depth to the song, setting it apart from typical pop compositions of its era.
Lyrics
Hal David’s lyrics delve into themes of longing and vulnerability, portraying a narrative of unrequited love and emotional yearning. The words align harmoniously with the music, enhancing the song’s emotional impact and allowing listeners to connect deeply with its sentiment.
Performance History
Following its release, “Anyone Who Had a Heart” became a staple in Dionne Warwick’s performances, solidifying her status as a leading figure in the music industry. The song’s success also led to numerous cover versions by artists worldwide, each bringing their unique interpretation to the piece.
Cultural Impact
The song’s influence extended beyond Warwick’s rendition. In the UK, Cilla Black’s cover version reached number one on the charts, highlighting the song’s broad appeal. Additionally, Petula Clark recorded the song in multiple languages, achieving international success and demonstrating its versatility across different cultures.
Legacy
Decades later, “Anyone Who Had a Heart” remains a timeless classic, exemplifying the collaborative genius of Bacharach and David and the emotive power of Warwick’s voice. Its enduring popularity is evident through continued airplay and the numerous artists who have drawn inspiration from its innovative composition.
Conclusion
“Anyone Who Had a Heart” stands as a testament to the transformative power of music, blending intricate composition with heartfelt lyrics to create a piece that continues to resonate with audiences. For those looking to experience this classic, Dionne Warwick’s original recording offers an authentic and moving rendition that captures the essence of the song’s enduring appeal.
Video
Lyrics
Anyone who ever loved, could look at me
And know that I love you
Anyone who ever dreamed, could look at me
And know I dream of you
Knowing I love you so
Anyone who had a heart
Would take me in his arms and love me too, fool
Couldn’t be another heart that hurt me
Like you hurt me and be so untrue
What am I to do?
Every time you go away, I always say
This time it’s goodbye, dear
Loving you the way I do
I take you back, without you I’d die, dear
Knowing I love you so
Anyone who had a heart
Would take me in his arms and love me too, fool
Couldn’t be another heart that hurt me
Like you hurt me and be so untrue
What am I to do?
Knowing I love you so
Anyone who had a heart
Would take me in his arms and love me too, fool
Couldn’t be another heart that hurt me
Like you hurt me and be so untrue
Anyone who had a heart would love me too
Anyone who had a heart would simply
Take me in his arms and always love me
Why won’t you? Yeah
Anyone who had a heart would love me too
Anyone who had a heart would simply
Take me in his arms and always love me