About the song
Gene Pitney’s Timeless Ballad: “Something’s Gotten Hold of My Heart”
Released in 1968, Gene Pitney’s heart-wrenching ballad, “Something’s Gotten Hold of My Heart,” is a testament to the enduring power of love and loss. This timeless classic has resonated with audiences for decades, captivating listeners with its poignant lyrics and soulful melody. While it didn’t quite reach the same commercial heights as some of Pitney’s earlier hits, such as “Rubber Ball” and “Hello Mary Lou,” it has since become a beloved staple of the singer-songwriter’s discography.
The song’s melancholic tone is immediately apparent, as Pitney’s rich baritone voice conveys a deep sense of longing and despair. The lyrics, penned by Roger Cook and Roger Greenaway, paint a vivid picture of a man consumed by love, yet unable to fully grasp the object of his affection. The phrase, “Something’s gotten hold of my heart,” serves as a recurring motif, emphasizing the inexplicable and all-consuming nature of love.
The duet version with Marc Almond, released in 1989, brought renewed attention to the song and propelled it to the top of the UK charts. The pairing of Pitney’s seasoned vocals with Almond’s more youthful and emotive style created a compelling contrast, making the song feel fresh and relevant to a new generation of listeners.
Musically, “Something’s Gotten Hold of My Heart” is a beautifully crafted piece of pop balladry. The orchestral arrangement adds a sense of grandeur and drama, while the melodic interplay between the verses and chorus creates a memorable and emotionally resonant experience. The song’s timeless quality is evident in its ability to transcend generational divides and continue to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level.
In conclusion, Gene Pitney’s “Something’s Gotten Hold of My Heart” is a powerful and enduring love song that has rightfully earned its place in the annals of popular music. Whether you were a teenager in the 1960s or discovered the song more recently, there is no denying its universal appeal. The song’s ability to evoke strong emotions and create a lasting impression is a testament to Pitney’s songwriting talent and the timeless nature of the human experience.
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Lyrics
Something’s gotten hold of my heart
Keeping my soul and my senses apart
Something’s gotten into my life
Cutting its way through my dreams like a knife
Turning me up and turning me down
Making me smile and making me frown
In a world that was small
I once lived in a time there was peace with no trouble at all
But then you came my way
And a feeling unknown shook my heart, made me want you to stay
All of my nights and all of my days
I gotta tell you now
Something’s gotten hold of my hand
Dragging my soul to a beautiful land
Something has invaded my mind
Painting my sleep with a colour so bright
Changing the grey and changing the blue
Scarlet for me and scarlet for you
I’ve got to know if this is the real thing
I’ve got to know what’s making my heart sing
You smile and I am lost for a lifetime
Each minute spent with you is the right time
Every hour, every day
You touch me and my mind goes astray