About the song
Neil Sedaka’s iconic ballad, “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do,” is a timeless piece of pop music that has resonated with audiences for decades. Released in 1962, the song quickly became a chart-topping hit, reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and Sedaka’s soulful vocals.
The song’s origins lie in a creative impasse faced by Sedaka and his songwriting partner, Howard Greenfield. Struggling to come up with lyrics for a particular section, Sedaka improvised a scat vocalization, which they both loved and decided to incorporate into the final version. This spontaneous moment would become a signature element of the song, instantly recognizable to fans.
“Breaking Up Is Hard to Do” offers a poignant exploration of the emotional turmoil that accompanies a romantic breakup. The lyrics capture the universal experience of heartbreak, expressing feelings of sadness, loneliness, and longing. Sedaka’s delivery is both heartfelt and vulnerable, drawing listeners into the emotional landscape of the song.
Beyond its lyrical depth, the song’s musical arrangement is equally impressive. The upbeat tempo and catchy melody create a sense of optimism, even amidst the melancholy themes. The backing vocals by the Cookies add a touch of harmony and richness to the sound.
“Breaking Up Is Hard to Do” has had a lasting impact on popular music. It has been covered by numerous artists, including Lenny Welch, The Partridge Family, and even Sedaka himself in a later recording. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level, reminding us of the universal experience of love and loss.
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Lyrics
Do do do
Down dooby doo down down
Comma, comma, down dooby doo down down
Comma, comma, down dooby doo down down
Breaking up is hard to do
Don’t take your love away from me
Don’t you leave my heart in misery
If you go then I’ll be blue
‘Cause breaking up is hard to do
Remember when you held me tight
And you kissed me all through the night
Think of all that we’ve been through
And breaking up is hard to do
They say that breaking up is hard to do
Now I know
I know that it’s true
Don’t say that this is the end
Instead of breaking up I wish that we were making up again
I beg of you don’t say goodbye
Can’t we give our love another try?
Come on, baby, let’s start anew
‘Cause breaking up is hard to do
Now I know
I know that it’s true
(Don’t say that this is the end)
Instead of breaking up I wish that we were making up again
I beg of you don’t say goodbye
Can’t we give our love another try?
Come on, baby, let’s start anew
‘Cause breaking up is hard to do
Comma, comma, down dooby doo down down
Comma, comma, down dooby doo down down
Comma, comma, down dooby doo down down
Comma, comma, down dooby doo down