About the Song
The Everly Brothers’ 1960 hit, “When Will I Be Loved,” isn’t your typical love song. Unlike their earlier optimistic ballads, this song delves into the frustration and despair of unrequited love. Here’s a closer look at what makes it a classic:
Catchy Melody with a Haunting Edge: The opening features a simple yet effective guitar riff that sets a melancholic tone. Despite the catchy melody, there’s a sense of desperation in the vocals, perfectly capturing the protagonist’s emotional turmoil.
Lyrical Honesty: The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love that remains unfulfilled. Lines like “I’ve been cheated, been mistreated / When will I be loved” showcase the raw emotions of rejection and longing. The repeated refrain acts as a desperate plea, highlighting the protagonist’s yearning for affection.
Universality of Heartache: While the song specifically deals with romantic disappointment, it taps into a more universal theme: the feeling of being unseen or undervalued. Anyone who has ever felt rejected or unappreciated can connect with the protagonist’s pain.
Shift in Tone: The Everly Brothers were known for their close harmonies, and “When Will I Be Loved” is no exception. However, there’s a subtle shift in the harmonies during the chorus, reflecting the protagonist’s growing frustration and desperation.
Cultural Significance: The song reached number eight on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US, solidifying the Everly Brothers’ status as rock and roll stars. “When Will I Be Loved” resonated with a generation of teenagers grappling with feelings of love and rejection, making it a cultural touchstone of the early 1960s.
Enduring Legacy: “When Will I Be Loved” continues to be a popular song, covered by artists across genres. Its relatable theme, catchy melody, and raw vocals ensure its place in the rock and roll hall of fame. The song serves as a reminder of the Everly Brothers’ ability to capture the complexities of love and loss with simple yet powerful lyrics.
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Lyrics: “When Will I Be Loved?”
I’ve been made blue,
I’ve been lied to,
When will I be loved?I’ve been turned down
I’ve been pushed round’.
When will I be loved?When I meet a new girl,
that I want for mine.
She always breaks my heart in two,
it happens every time.I’ve been cheated,
been mistreated.
When will I be loved?When I meet a new girl,
that I want for mine.
She always breaks my heart in two,
it happens every time.I’ve been cheated,
been mistreated
When will I be loved?
When will I be loved?