Introduction
London in the mid-sixties pulsated with a youthful energy. Miniskirts, bold fashion, and the sounds of The Beatles and The Rolling Stones dominated the scene. Yet, a different voice was about to break through, a voice that would capture hearts with its raw emotion and powerful balladry. Enter Engelbert Humperdinck, a rising star then known as Gerry Dorsey.
Humperdinck, with his operatic stage name crafted by his manager Gordon Mills, was an anomaly. His smooth baritone and penchant for romantic ballads stood in stark contrast to the rock and roll revolution. But there was an undeniable sincerity in his voice, a vulnerability that resonated with a generation yearning for something more.
In 1967, “Release Me” hit the airwaves. The song, written by the songwriting duo of Jimmy Duncan and Russ Ballard, spoke of a love lost, a desperate plea for freedom from the shackles of a bygone relationship. Humperdinck’s powerful vocals poured over the orchestra’s melancholic swell, creating a soundscape that resonated deeply.
“Release Me” became an instant sensation. It battled The Beatles for the coveted number one spot on the UK charts, ultimately holding it for a staggering six weeks. It became the biggest-selling single of the year in the UK, outselling even the Fab Four. Humperdinck’s career skyrocketed, solidifying him as a global star and proving that even in the midst of a rock and roll revolution, there was room for a powerful ballad sung with heartfelt emotion.
So tonight, we revisit “Release Me,” a song that transcended genre and time. Let Engelbert Humperdinck’s voice wash over you, a testament to the enduring power of love and loss.