Introduction:
A Heartfelt Plea: The History of Engelbert Humperdinck’s “Am I That Easy To Forget”
“Am I That Easy To Forget” isn’t just a song by Engelbert Humperdinck, it’s a poignant ballad that captured the essence of heartbreak in the late 1960s. But the song’s origins stretch back a little further.
While the exact recording date is debated, it’s believed Humperdinck laid down his version of the song in August 1967. However, the melody and lyrics existed before that. Songwriting credits go to Roland [Last Name Needed] and Carole Bayer Sager, a duo known for crafting unforgettable tunes.
Humperdinck, a rising star at the time, wasn’t the first to record the song. There’s evidence that an earlier version, possibly by a lesser-known artist, may have been released in 1967. However, Humperdinck’s rendition became the definitive one. Released as a single later in 1967 from his album “The Last Waltz,” it resonated with audiences.
The song itself is a heart-wrenching plea from a lover left behind. The melancholic piano sets the stage for Humperdinck’s powerful vocals, which effortlessly convey the pain of lost love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture – empty rooms, unanswered calls, and the constant nagging question: “Am I that easy to forget?”
“Am I That Easy To Forget” became a smash hit in 1968. It reached number 18 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US, but more importantly, it topped the Easy Listening chart. This cemented Humperdinck’s status as a rising star and a master of romantic ballads.
The song’s success transcended borders. Humperdinck himself recorded a special Italian version titled “Dimenticarti non potrei” (“I Couldn’t Forget You”). Other notable covers include Petula Clark’s French rendition, “Tu Reviendras Vers Ta Maison” (“You Will Come Back to Your Home”), and a unique country-tinged version by Leon Russell under the pseudonym “Hank Wilson” in 1973.
“Am I That Easy To Forget” continues to resonate with listeners today. Its timeless melody and relatable themes of love and loss ensure its place as a classic ballad. So, as the opening notes rise and Humperdinck’s voice fills the air, prepare to be swept away by a song that asks the question we all fear: in the face of love’s demise, can we truly be forgotten that easily?