About the song
Dionne Warwick, a vocal powerhouse with a career spanning decades, has gifted us with countless timeless melodies. One such gem, “Heartbreaker,” remains a testament to her enduring appeal. Released in 1982, this soulful ballad quickly ascended the charts worldwide, solidifying its place as one of Warwick’s most beloved songs.
The song’s origins can be traced back to the songwriting trio, Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb, better known as the Bee Gees. Their signature harmonies and pop sensibilities infused “Heartbreaker” with a captivating energy that perfectly complemented Warwick’s emotive vocals. Produced by the Gibb-Galuten-Richardson team, the track boasts a lush production that showcases Warwick’s vocal range and emotional depth.
“Heartbreaker” tells a tale of heartbreak and longing, exploring the universal themes of love, loss, and the enduring power of memory. Warwick’s performance is nothing short of extraordinary, as she navigates the song’s emotional landscape with both vulnerability and strength. Her voice, rich and resonant, conveys a sense of heartache that resonates deeply with listeners.
The song’s impact was undeniable, reaching the top ten in numerous countries and selling millions of copies worldwide. In the United States, “Heartbreaker” peaked at number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking Warwick’s eighth number one Adult Contemporary hit. The track’s success extended beyond the pop charts, reaching number 14 on the Hot Black Singles chart.
“Heartbreaker” continues to captivate audiences today, serving as a timeless reminder of Warwick’s exceptional talent and the enduring power of great music. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the song’s emotional resonance and Warwick’s unforgettable performance.
Video
Lyrics
I got to say it and it’s hard for me
You got me crying like I thought I would never be
Love is believin’, but you let me down
How can I love you when you ain’t around?
And I get to the morning and you never call
Love should be everything or not at all
And it don’t matter whatever you do
I made a life out of loving you
Only to find any dream that I follow is dying
I’m crying in the rain
I could be searching my world for a love everlasting
Feeling no pain
When will we meet again?
Why do you have to be a heartbreaker?
Is it a lesson that I never knew?
Got to get out of the spell that I’m under
My love for you
Why do you have to be a heartbreaker
When I was being what you want me to be?
Suddenly, everything I ever wanted
Has passed me by
This world may end
Not you and I
My love is stronger than the universe
My soul is crying for you, and that cannot be reversed
You made the rules, and you could not see
You made a life out of hurting me
Out of my mind, I am held by the power of you, love
Tell me when do we try?
Or should we say goodbye?
Why do you have to be a heartbreaker
When I was being what you want me to be?
Suddenly, everything I ever wanted
Has passed me by
Ooh, oh, oh-oh
Why do you have to be a heartbreaker?
Is it a lesson that I never knew?
Suddenly, everything I ever wanted
My love for you, whoa-oh-oh
Why do you have to be a heartbreaker
When I was being what you want me to be?
Suddenly everything I ever wanted
Has passed me by
Tell me, why do you have to be a heartbreaker?