Engelbert Humperdinck’s Timeless Classic: “Release Me”
When one thinks of Engelbert Humperdinck, the song that immediately comes to mind is his timeless classic, “Release Me”. This iconic track, originally penned by Eddie “Piano” Miller and Robert Yount in 1949, found its most memorable interpretation in Humperdinck’s 1967 version, which soared to phenomenal heights on the UK Singles Chart.
“Release Me” achieved a remarkable feat by holding the number one position for six consecutive weeks during March and April of 1967. This achievement was particularly significant as it prevented the Beatles’ highly anticipated double A-side single, “Penny Lane” / “Strawberry Fields Forever”, from claiming the top spot. In a year dominated by the Beatles’ innovative sounds, Humperdinck’s “Release Me” stood out for its emotional depth and timeless appeal.
The song’s success was not just confined to chart performance. It became the highest-selling single in the UK for the entire year, recording over one million in sales, with actual sales figures reaching an impressive 1.38 million copies. This incredible milestone solidified Engelbert Humperdinck as a household name and a significant figure in the music industry.
Humperdinck’s journey to this pinnacle of success is as captivating as the song itself. In 1965, performing under the name Gerry Dorsey, he reconnected with his old friend, Gordon Mills, who was then managing Tom Jones. Mills saw potential in Dorsey and decided to manage him, suggesting a name change to Engelbert Humperdinck. This change, though unusual, marked the beginning of a successful transformation.
The turning point in Humperdinck’s career came in early 1967 when he was asked to fill in for the ill Dickie Valentine on the popular TV variety show, Sunday Night at the London Palladium. Performing “Release Me” on this high-rating program exposed him to a massive audience. The response was overwhelmingly positive, catapulting the song to the top of the charts by March 2, 1967, and keeping it there for six weeks. This event marked the first time the Beatles had been kept from the number one spot since their debut.
The song’s enduring appeal is also evidenced by its 56-week tenure on the charts, a record at the time. Interestingly, the B-side of the single, “Ten Guitars”, found unexpected popularity in New Zealand. It became an anthem among young Maori moving to urban areas for work and later influenced the wider New Zealand music scene, even inspiring a documentary titled ‘Ten Guitars’ on New Zealand popular music.
Engelbert Humperdinck’s “Release Me” is more than just a song; it’s a piece of musical history that captured the hearts of millions and continues to resonate with audiences today. Its blend of heartfelt lyrics and Humperdinck’s powerful delivery ensures its place as a beloved classic, reminding us of a time when music could unite and move people across the globe.