Introduction:
A Song of Love’s Light: Unveiling Engelbert Humperdinck’s “This Is My Song”
“This Is My Song,” a timeless declaration of love, holds a special place in the heart of Engelbert Humperdinck’s discography. Released in 1967 on his debut album “Release Me,” the song wasn’t just a love song, it was a glimpse into the heart of a burgeoning star.
Humperdinck, then known as Arnold Dorsey, wasn’t an overnight success. The path to “This Is My Song” was paved with years of honing his craft. Born in India to a British Army family, music was a constant companion. By his teens, he was performing in clubs and honing his powerful baritone. The turning point came when producer Gordon Mills recognized Dorsey’s potential and took him under his wing. A new persona, the sophisticated Engelbert Humperdinck, was born, and with it came “This Is My Song.”
The song itself is a beautiful simplicity. The opening lines, “Why is my heart so light/ Why are the stars so bright/ Why is the sky so blue/ Since the hour I met you,” paint a vivid picture of newfound love’s transformative power. The world seems brighter, the stars shine more intensely, all because of the beloved.
The music, a gentle orchestral arrangement, perfectly complements Humperdinck’s warm vocals. The song never reaches a crescendo, instead opting for a sustained tenderness that reflects the sincerity of the lyrics. Lines like “Flowers are smiling bright/ Smiling for our delight/ Smiling so tenderly/ For the world, you and me” showcase the childlike wonder that love inspires.
“This Is My Song” wasn’t Humperdinck’s biggest hit, but it established a core theme in his repertoire: love songs sung with unwavering conviction. It’s a song not just for the newly smitten, but for those who have found a love that endures. The world may be filled with uncertainties, but with love, there’s always a song to be sung, a melody that celebrates the joy of togetherness.
So, as the opening chords of “This Is My Song” begin, prepare to be transported to a world bathed in the warm glow of love. Let Engelbert Humperdinck serenade you with a song that transcends time, reminding us all of the transformative power of love’s embrace.
Video:
https://youtu.be/4CY48nwpDIg?si=swBTcW3qZWvOA-iz