Introduction:
The song “What I Did for Love” is one of the standout numbers from the 1975 musical A Chorus Line, which was composed by Marvin Hamlisch with lyrics by Edward Kleban. It became one of the most iconic songs from the Broadway show, known for its emotional depth and timeless message. A Chorus Line centers around the lives of Broadway dancers auditioning for a spot in a musical, and “What I Did for Love” is a reflection of the sacrifices and passion required to pursue a career in the arts. Sung by the character Diana Morales, the song serves as a poignant anthem of perseverance and dedication.
Engelbert Humperdinck’s rendition of “What I Did for Love” brings his signature romantic ballad style to the song. Known for his smooth voice and emotive delivery, Humperdinck was a natural choice to cover this Broadway classic. He has a long history of performing love songs, and his version captures the heartfelt sentiment that the song demands. While the original context of the song was tied to the aspirations of dancers, Humperdinck’s interpretation broadens its meaning to a universal reflection on love, loss, and the things people do in the name of love.
Humperdinck’s version appeared on his 1977 album Miracles By Engelbert, where he included a variety of popular songs from the era. His cover of “What I Did for Love” not only highlights his vocal range but also his ability to connect with emotionally charged material. His fans, who have always appreciated his romantic ballads, embraced this song as another classic in his extensive repertoire.
Over the years, “What I Did for Love” has been covered by various artists across different genres, but Engelbert Humperdinck’s version remains a memorable and beloved rendition. His performance demonstrates his versatility as a vocalist, able to interpret a song originally tied to a specific context and make it resonate with a broader audience. Humperdinck’s ability to inject sincerity and warmth into every performance helped solidify his place as one of the most enduring voices in popular music.