About the song
In the heart of the doo-wop era, a song emerged that would forever etch its melody into the fabric of popular music. “Tears on My Pillow,” a tale of heartbreak and longing, became an anthem for a generation. Released in 1958, this timeless composition, penned by Sylvester Bradford and Al Lewis, captured the essence of youthful love and its bittersweet consequences.
The Imperials, a vocal group hailing from Brooklyn, New York, were the pioneers of this poignant ballad. Led by the soulful voice of Little Anthony Gourdine, their rendition of “Tears on My Pillow” was a revelation. The song’s simple yet evocative lyrics, combined with the group’s impeccable harmonies, struck a chord with audiences across the nation. The heartfelt crooning of “Tears on my pillow, where can I hide my face” resonated with listeners who had experienced the pain of unrequited love.
“Tears on My Pillow” quickly climbed the charts, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100. Its success was a testament to the song’s enduring appeal and the group’s undeniable talent. The track’s impact extended far beyond its initial release, becoming a staple of oldies radio and a beloved classic for generations to come.
Over the years, “Tears on My Pillow” has been covered by countless artists, each adding their own unique interpretation to the original. From Kylie Minogue’s dance-pop rendition to more traditional covers, the song’s legacy has endured. Yet, it is the Imperials’ original version that remains the definitive performance, capturing the raw emotion and timeless beauty of this iconic composition.
Video
Lyrics
You don’t remember me, but I remember you
‘Twas not so long ago, you broke my heart in two
Tears on my pillow, pain in my heart
Caused by you, you
If we could start anew, I wouldn’t hesitate
I’d gladly take you back, and tempt the hand of fate
Tears on my pillow, pain in my heart, caused by you
Love is not a gadget, love is not a toy
When you find the one you love
She’ll fill your heart with joy
If we could start anew, I wouldn’t hesitate
I’d gladly take you back, and tempt the hand of fate
Tears on my pillow, pain in my heart, caused by you
You (oh oh oh)
You (oh oh oh), you (oh oh oh)
You (oh oh oh) you (oh oh oh)