Engelbert Humperdinck – Please Release Me: A Classic That Stopped The Beatles
In 1967, British singer Engelbert Humperdinck released what would become one of the most iconic ballads of all time: “Please Release Me”. With its soaring vocals and heartfelt lyrics, the song not only captured audiences worldwide—it achieved a remarkable feat: keeping The Beatles’ double A-side “Penny Lane/Strawberry Fields Forever” off the No. 1 spot in the UK.
A Song About Letting Go
“Please Release Me (Let Me Go)” is a dramatic and emotionally rich breakup song. Its message is clear and timeless: a plea for freedom from a relationship that no longer brings happiness. With lines like:
“Please release me, let me go / For I don’t love you anymore…”
the song touches on a difficult but often necessary moment in love—knowing when to say goodbye.
Originally written in 1949 by Eddie Miller, Robert Yount, and Dub Williams, the song had been recorded by several artists before Humperdinck made it his signature hit. His 1967 version, however, brought new life to the song with a lush orchestration and his powerful baritone vocals.
Chart Success and Cultural Impact
Upon release, “Please Release Me” soared to No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart, where it stayed for six consecutive weeks. Even more impressively, the song stayed in the Top 50 for a record-breaking 56 weeks, a feat that has rarely been matched.
Its popularity extended far beyond the UK. The single also became a hit in the United States, Australia, Canada, and across Europe, solidifying Humperdinck’s status as an international star.
The Voice Behind the Ballad: Engelbert Humperdinck
Born Arnold George Dorsey, Engelbert Humperdinck adopted his unusual stage name and rose to fame in the mid-1960s. Known for his romantic ballads and smooth vocal delivery, he was a refreshing contrast to the rock and pop revolution of the time.
“Please Release Me” became the defining track of his career, and its success launched him into a series of chart-topping hits throughout the late ’60s and ’70s.
Why “Please Release Me” Endures
More than half a century later, “Please Release Me” remains a beloved staple in the world of classic love songs. Whether played at karaoke nights, featured in nostalgic films, or remembered by fans of golden-era ballads, its emotional impact still resonates.
The song speaks to the pain of letting go with dignity—a message that transcends generations and cultures.
Covers and Legacy
Over the years, “Please Release Me” has been covered by dozens of artists in various styles, including country, pop, and even reggae. But Humperdinck’s version remains the definitive rendition. In 2010, he even re-recorded it for modern audiences, introducing the song to a new generation.
It’s also recognized as one of the best-selling singles of all time, with global sales exceeding 1 million copies in the UK alone.
Final Thoughts
Engelbert Humperdinck’s “Please Release Me” is not just a song—it’s a cultural landmark. Its timeless message, haunting melody, and unforgettable performance have made it a pillar of romantic music history.
Whether you’re nursing a broken heart or simply appreciating a classic, “Please Release Me” is a ballad that continues to move hearts across decades.
Lyrics: Please Release Me
Please release me, let me go
For I don’t love you anymore
To waste our lives would be a sin
Release me and let me love againI have found a new love, dear
And I will always want her near
Her lips are warm while yours are cold
Release me, my darling, let me go(Please release me, let me go)
For I don’t love you anymore
(To waste my life would be a sin)
So release me and let me love againPlease release me, can’t you see
You’d be a fool to cling to me
To live a lie would bring us pain
So release me and let me love again
(Let me love, let me love)
