Introduction:
“Let It Be Me” is a tender ballad originally written in French as “Je t’appartiens” by Gilbert Bécaud, with lyrics by Pierre Delanoë. The song was first recorded in 1955 by Bécaud and quickly became a hit in France. The English adaptation came a few years later, thanks to lyricist Mann Curtis, who transformed the song into “Let It Be Me.” The English version has since become a classic, covered by many artists, with one of the most memorable interpretations coming from The Everly Brothers in 1960.
The Everly Brothers, a pioneering duo in rock and roll, known for their close harmony singing, were at the height of their popularity when they recorded “Let It Be Me.” Don and Phil Everly had already scored hits with songs like “Bye Bye Love” and “Wake Up Little Susie,” establishing themselves as a significant force in the late 1950s and early 1960s music scene. Their take on “Let It Be Me” stands out for its emotional depth and the perfect blending of their voices, a signature element of their music.
Recorded in 1959 and released in 1960, “Let It Be Me” became one of the Everly Brothers’ most beloved tracks. The song reached No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking one of their last Top 10 hits of that era. The track was produced by Archie Bleyer, who worked closely with the duo, and the arrangement emphasized the lush orchestral background, which highlighted the vulnerability and romance of the lyrics.
The Everly Brothers’ rendition is often seen as one of the definitive versions of the song, with their heartfelt interpretation cementing its place as a classic love ballad. The song is about a plea for love and devotion, with the singers expressing a deep desire to be the one chosen by the person they love. The simple, yet poignant lyrics, combined with the Everly Brothers’ harmonies, resonated deeply with audiences at the time and continue to do so today.
“Let It Be Me” has since become a staple in pop music, covered by a wide array of artists, including Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, and Elvis Presley. Each version brings a unique flavor to the song, but the Everly Brothers’ version is often regarded as the most iconic.
Their recording of “Let It Be Me” not only showcases the Everly Brothers’ vocal chemistry but also highlights the emotional power that defined much of their music. This song remains a testament to their influence on both rock and roll and pop ballad traditions.