About the song
In the early 1960s, a young, diminutive singer named Brenda Lee emerged from the heart of Tennessee to captivate the world with her powerful, soulful voice. One of her most enduring hits, “All Alone Am I,” is a timeless ballad that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.
Originally composed by the Greek composer Manos Hadjidakis and recorded in Greek by Tzeni Karezi for the soundtrack of the film “The Island of the Brave,” the song was later adapted into English by Arthur Altman and became a staple of Brenda Lee’s repertoire. The English version, produced by the legendary Owen Bradley, was released as the title track on one of Lee’s albums and quickly climbed the charts.
The song’s haunting melody, combined with Lee’s emotive vocals, creates a sense of longing and melancholy that is both relatable and universal. The lyrics, filled with themes of loneliness and heartbreak, strike a chord with listeners who have experienced the pain of love lost. The song’s opening on the sub-dominant B-flat major 7th chord adds a touch of mystery and intrigue, drawing the listener in from the very beginning.
“All Alone Am I” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on both the US and UK charts. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its timeless appeal and Lee’s unforgettable performance. The song’s legacy lives on, inspiring countless artists and continuing to touch the hearts of listeners around the world.
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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