About the song
“Breaking Up Is Hard to Do,” penned by Neil Sedaka and Howard Greenfield, stands as an enduring anthem of the 1960s pop era, encapsulating the emotional turmoil of love lost and the challenge of moving on. Originally recorded in 1962, and subsequently reimagined in 1975, the song showcases Sedaka’s versatility and enduring appeal across decades.
The genesis of this iconic track bears a whimsical anecdote: Sedaka and Greenfield stumbled upon the song’s distinctive scat intro (“come-a come-a down, dooby doo down down”) during a creative impasse. Unable to find suitable lyrics, Sedaka improvised a vocalise that ultimately became integral to the song’s charm. This spontaneous moment not only underscored their musical chemistry but also added a playful touch to the heartfelt lyrics.
Critically acclaimed for its infectious melody and emotional resonance, “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do” ascended to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 in August 1962, solidifying Sedaka’s status as a pop sensation. Its success was not confined to the United States; the song resonated globally, climbing charts in the UK and beyond, sometimes with localized adaptations such as the Italian rendition “Tu non lo sai.”
The song’s evolution highlights Sedaka’s adaptability as an artist. His 1975 re-recording introduced a new arrangement, showcasing a more mature vocal delivery while retaining the song’s essence. This version, along with covers by other artists like Lenny Welch and The Partridge Family, cemented its status as a timeless classic with cross-generational appeal.
Musically, “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do” is a testament to Sedaka’s meticulous approach and the craftsmanship of the era’s session musicians. The original recording featured a stellar lineup including Al Casamenti and Art Ryerson on guitar, Ernie Hayes on piano, and background vocals by the Cookies, contributing to its rich, layered sound.
Beyond its musical merits, the song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its universal theme. Through its poignant lyrics and catchy refrain, it resonates with anyone who has experienced the pain of a breakup, transcending language barriers as evidenced by its adaptations in Italian and French.
In essence, “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do” remains not just a hallmark of Sedaka’s career but a cultural touchstone that continues to captivate listeners, reminding us of the timeless allure of classic pop music and its ability to evoke deep-seated emotions with every refrain.
Video
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