About the song
“Endless Love,” an iconic ballad penned by Lionel Richie, resonates as a timeless declaration of enduring affection between two souls. Originally a duet featuring Richie and Diana Ross, the song encapsulates the essence of eternal love through its heartfelt lyrics and soulful melodies.
Released in 1981, “Endless Love” served as the theme song for Franco Zeffirelli’s film adaptation of Scott Spencer’s novel of the same name. In the movie, the character Susan, portrayed by Jamie Bernstein, sings the poignant ballad, enriching the narrative with its emotional depth and resonance. Produced by Richie and meticulously arranged by Gene Page, the track not only adorned the film but also captured the hearts of listeners worldwide.
The song swiftly ascended to the top of the charts, claiming the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 for an impressive nine consecutive weeks. Its success was not confined to one genre; it also dominated the Billboard R&B and Adult Contemporary charts, underscoring its universal appeal. In the United Kingdom, it peaked at number seven, further solidifying its international acclaim.
Critically acclaimed as a “super ballad” by Record World, “Endless Love” is praised for its evocative blend of drama and tenderness. The soul-stirring composition became a career-defining moment for both Richie and Ross. For Ross, it marked her 18th and final number-one single in the USA, including her illustrious tenure with the Supremes. Meanwhile, it stands as Richie’s most successful single, setting the stage for a series of chart-topping hits throughout the 1980s.
Recognized by Billboard as the greatest duet of all time, the original rendition of “Endless Love” has left an indelible mark on music history. Its legacy extends beyond its initial release, with subsequent covers by renowned artists such as Luther Vandross and Mariah Carey, as well as country music star Shania Twain, each bringing their unique interpretation to this classic masterpiece.
Accolades followed the song’s meteoric rise, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song, underscoring its significance in both popular culture and cinematic history. Additionally, “Endless Love” clinched a prestigious American Music Award for Favorite Pop/Rock Single in 1982, further cementing its place among the pantheon of timeless love songs.
With its lush instrumentation featuring contributions from esteemed musicians such as Nathan East on bass guitar and Paul Jackson Jr. on guitar solos, “Endless Love” remains a benchmark of musical excellence and emotional resonance. Whether in its original form as a duet between Richie and Ross or in subsequent solo renditions, the song continues to captivate audiences with its enduring message of love’s enduring power.
In conclusion, “Endless Love” transcends its origins as a soundtrack single to become an anthem of love’s eternal promise, embodying the essence of heartfelt devotion and musical brilliance that defines its place in the annals of music history.
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Lyrics
My love, there’s only you in my life
The only thing that’s right
My first love
You’re every breath that I take
You’re every step I make
And I, I want to share
All my love with you
No one else will do
And your eyes, your eyes, your eyes
They tell me how much you care
Ooh, yes
You will always be
My endless love
Two hearts
Two hearts that beat as one
Our lives have just begun
Forever (oh)
I’ll hold you close in my arms
I can’t resist your charms
And love, oh love
I’ll be a fool for you I’m sure
You know I don’t mind (oh)
You know I don’t mind
‘Cause you
You mean the world to me (oh)
I know, I know
I’ve found, I’ve found in you
My endless love
Ohh
Boom, boom
Boom, boom, boom boom, boom, boom
Boom, boom, boom boom, boom
Oh, and love oh, love
I’ll be that fool for you I’m sure
You know I don’t mind
Oh, you know I don’t mind
And, yes
You’ll be the only one
‘Cause no one can deny
This love I have inside
And I’ll give it all to you
My love, my love, my love
My endless love