About the song
Delving into the world of Brenda Lee’s 1963 album, “All Alone Am I,” is an exploration of both personal vulnerability and timeless melodies. Released in February of that year, the album marked Lee’s eighth studio effort and showcased her powerful vocals against a backdrop of classic pop standards.
The title track, “All Alone Am I,” serves as the album’s centerpiece. Originally a Greek composition by Manos Hadjidakis, the song was transformed into a poignant ballad with English lyrics by Arthur Altman. Lee’s voice soars with raw emotion, capturing the ache of loneliness and longing. This emotional depth becomes a recurring theme throughout the album.
Beyond the title track, “All Alone Am I” features a collection of well-established pop standards. From the whimsical “My Coloring Book” to the sophisticated “It’s All Right with Me,” Lee breathes new life into these familiar tunes. This strategic selection hints at a shift in Lee’s target audience, aiming for a more mature market compared to her earlier hits. Music critic Richie Unterberger of Allmusic acknowledges this, suggesting the album catered to a “more mature audience” seeking a sophisticated listening experience.
The album’s production, overseen by Owen Bradley, further elevates the experience. Recorded across four sessions in Nashville, Tennessee, the instrumentation is crisp and polished. Renowned session musicians like Floyd Cramer on piano and Harold Bradley on guitar provide a solid foundation for Lee’s vocals to shine.
Commercially, “All Alone Am I” achieved moderate success. The title track became Lee’s first single to appear on the Billboard Easy Listening chart, reaching the coveted number one spot. The album itself peaked at number 25 on the Billboard 200 albums chart, solidifying Lee’s position as a prominent artist of the era.
Despite not being reissued on CD in the United States, “All Alone Am I” remains a valuable addition to Brenda Lee’s discography. It offers a glimpse into her artistic evolution, showcasing her ability to navigate both heartfelt ballads and timeless pop anthems with equal mastery. Whether you’re a longtime Brenda Lee fan or simply a lover of classic pop music, “All Alone Am I” is a rewarding listen, offering a journey through both vulnerability and enduring melodies.
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Lyrics
All alone am I ever since your goodbye
All alone with just the beat of my heart
People all around but I don’t hear a sound
Just the lonely beating of my heart
No use in holding other hands
For I’d be holding only emptiness
No use in kissing other lips
For I’d be thinking just of your caress
All alone am I ever since your goodbye
All alone with just the beat of my heart
People all around but I don’t hear a sound
Just the lonely beating of my heart
No other voice can say the words
My heart must hear to ever sing again
The words you used to whisper low
No other love can ever bring again
All alone am I ever since your goodbye
All alone with just the beat of my heart
People all around but I don’t hear a sound
Just the lonely beating of my heart