“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Imagine a summer evening in the 1960s, the radio softly crackling as Gene Pitney’s unmistakable voice fills the room with raw emotion. “It Hurts to Be in Love” was one of those songs that could transport listeners into the very heart of a romantic ache. A timeless piece, it has remained a staple in pop music, offering solace to anyone who’s ever felt the sting of unrequited love.
About the Composition
- Title: It Hurts to Be in Love
- Composer: Howard Greenfield and Helen Miller
- Premiere Date: July 1964
- Album: It Hurts to Be in Love and Eleven More Hit Songs
- Genre: Pop
Background
Originally written for Neil Sedaka, the song found its way to Gene Pitney due to a contractual snag. Pitney, who was already a well-established artist by the mid-1960s, brought his signature dramatic flair to the song. Released as a single in 1964, it quickly became one of Pitney’s most beloved hits, peaking at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its success cemented Pitney’s reputation as a master of emotional pop ballads.
The song’s poignant lyrics and melody encapsulate the heartache of love that is out of reach, resonating deeply with audiences. Paired with Pitney’s powerful vocals, the track became a cultural touchstone of its era, capturing the bittersweet nature of romantic longing.
Musical Style
“It Hurts to Be in Love” is a quintessential pop ballad of the 1960s, with lush orchestration and a driving rhythm. The song is built around a catchy hook that underscores its emotional intensity. Pitney’s vocal delivery is dramatic and soaring, conveying both vulnerability and strength. The arrangement, featuring vibrant backing vocals and a steady beat, elevates the song’s energy while keeping the focus on its poignant narrative.
The production showcases the era’s penchant for blending orchestral elements with pop sensibilities, creating a sound that is both polished and deeply emotive.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “It Hurts to Be in Love” explore the anguish of loving someone who does not feel the same way. Lines like “It hurts to be in love when the only one you love / Turns out to be someone who’s not in love with you” capture the universal pain of unreciprocated affection. The simplicity of the words allows the emotional weight to shine, making it relatable to listeners across generations.
Performance History
Since its release, “It Hurts to Be in Love” has been performed and covered by various artists, each bringing their unique style to the song. Gene Pitney’s original recording remains the definitive version, noted for its passionate interpretation. The song was a concert staple for Pitney, and its enduring popularity ensured its presence in his live performances throughout his career.
Cultural Impact
“It Hurts to Be in Love” became a defining track of the 1960s pop landscape. Its themes of heartache and longing struck a chord with audiences, influencing subsequent love ballads in pop music. The song has appeared in films, television shows, and nostalgic playlists, ensuring its legacy as a classic heartbreak anthem. For many, it serves as a soundtrack to their own experiences of love and loss.
Legacy
Decades after its release, “It Hurts to Be in Love” continues to resonate with new audiences. The song’s timeless appeal lies in its relatability and Gene Pitney’s masterful performance. It remains a testament to the enduring power of well-crafted pop music to evoke deep emotional responses.
Conclusion
Listening to “It Hurts to Be in Love” feels like reading a diary entry of someone else’s heartbreak yet finding your own emotions reflected in every note. Gene Pitney’s voice captures the soul of the song, making it an unforgettable classic. If you haven’t already, take a moment to listen to this masterpiece. For the ultimate experience, start with the original recording—it’s a journey into the heart of love and loss that you won’t forget.
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Lyrics
It hurts to be in love, when the only one you love
Turns out to be someone who’s not in love with you
It hurts to love her so
When deep down inside you know
She will never want you, no matter what you do
And so you cry a little bit (hurts to be in love)
Oh, die a little bit (hurts to be in love)
Day and night, night and day
It hurts to be in love this way
How long can I exist?
Wanting lips I’ve never kissed
She gives all her kisses to somebody else
She thinks I’m just a friend
Though it hurts, I must pretend
The only way to keep her, is to keep it to myself
And so I cry a little bit (hurts to be in love)
Oh, I die a little bit (hurts to be in love)
Day and night, night and day
It hurts to be in love this way
And so I cry a little bit (hurts to be in love)
Oh, I die a little bit (hurts to be in love)
Day and night, night and day
It hurts to be in love this way
It hurts to be in love, day and night, night and day
It hurts to be in love. night and day, day and night
It hurts to be in love, day and night, night and day