Everly Brothers “When Will I Be Loved” (1960)
“When Will I Be Loved” is a song written by Phil Everly and performed by The Everly Brothers, released in 1960. The Everly Brothers, consisting of Phil and Don Everly, were one of the most influential rock and roll acts to emerge in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Known for their close harmony singing, which drew heavily from their roots in country and traditional music, the Everlys were able to create a unique sound that influenced countless artists who followed them. “When Will I Be Loved” is notable for its emotional depth and relatable lyrics, resonating strongly with audiences of the time.
The song, released as a single in 1960 following their earlier successes, showcases the Everlys’ signature harmony vocals, blending perfectly to evoke the feeling of longing and heartbreak. The track is driven by a rockabilly-inspired rhythm, with simple yet effective guitar work supporting the vocal arrangements. The instrumental elements of the song demonstrate the Everly Brothers’ ability to integrate elements of rock and country, contributing to the track’s broad appeal across different musical tastes.
Lyrically, “When Will I Be Loved” captures the universal experience of yearning for love and the pain of being let down by romantic partners. The lyrics explore themes of betrayal and loneliness but do so with a poignant simplicity and honesty that made the song particularly relatable. The chorus plaintively asks, “When will I be loved?”, a question that echoes the sentiment of anyone who has ever felt unappreciated or unlucky in their search for affection. This emotional resonance helped the song to become a staple on the radio and in jukeboxes across America upon its release.
In terms of live performances, “When Will I Be Loved” often featured in the Everly Brothers’ setlists, being particularly well-received by audiences. The brothers’ live performances were marked by their impeccable vocal harmonies and their ability to engage an audience with their compelling blend of rock and traditional country music influences. At live shows, the song would typically involve close interplay between Don’s lower harmony and Phil’s higher lead voice, which was a characteristic feature of many of their recordings.
The impact of “When Will I Be Loved” on music and culture can be seen not only in its popularity as an Everly Brothers hit but also in its enduring presence as a cover favorite for other artists. Linda Ronstadt’s 1975 cover version was a significant success, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100, and introducing the song to a new generation. Her version maintained the core emotions of the original while bringing a slightly different arrangement and a contemporary flair typical of the 1970s sound. The versatility of the song in being effectively covered by different artists speaks to its strong compositional foundation and universal appeal.
Beyond its success in the charts, “When Will I Be Loved” has contributed to the Everly Brothers’ legacy as icons who shaped the evolution of rock, pop, and country music. Their style influenced a vast array of bands and solo acts who came after them, most notably The Beatles, Simon & Garfunkel, and The Beach Boys, who have all cited the Everlys as a key influence. The song itself, with its blend of heartache and catchy melody, exemplifies the type of songwriting that became a hallmark of future music trends in the realm of rock and pop music.
Culturally, the song reflects the transitional phase of the early 1960s, where the youthful disillusionment and longing captured in pop music began to mirror broader societal changes. As younger generations were beginning to question traditional norms and explore new identities and paths in their personal lives, music like the Everly Brothers’ provided a soundtrack that encapsulated their hopes and frustrations.
Even today, “When Will I Be Loved” continues to evoke the same feelings of yearning and emotional depth, its timeless quality ensuring its place in the annals of rock and roll history. The Everly Brothers’ recording remains a touchstone for those investigating the roots of modern music and an example of the powerful, lasting influence of great rock and roll from its golden era.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g1iqpK97fPY
