“Elenore” by The Turtles is a charming and upbeat pop song that captures the essence of the 1960s music scene. Released in 1968, this track quickly became a fan favorite, thanks to its catchy melody and playful lyrics. The Turtles, known for their harmonious vocal style and infectious tunes, crafted “Elenore” as a light-hearted yet memorable piece that stands out in their discography.
The song was written by the band members themselves, a testament to their musical creativity and sense of humor. “Elenore” was featured on The Turtles’ album “The Turtles Present the Battle of the Bands,” a concept album where the band adopted different personas and musical styles for each track. This innovative approach showcased their versatility and willingness to experiment with their sound.
Upon its release, “Elenore” performed well on the charts, reaching number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its success wasn’t confined to the United States; the song also found a welcoming audience in the UK and other parts of the world. The playful and self-referential lyrics, combined with an upbeat and infectious tune, made it an instant hit.
The lyrics of “Elenore” were written as a parody of love songs, with lines like “You’re my pride and joy, et cetera,” poking fun at the clichés often found in pop music. Despite this playful intent, the song’s charm and sincerity resonated with listeners, making it one of The Turtles’ most beloved tracks.
The Turtles’ performance on “Elenore” is a delightful blend of wit and musicality. Their vocal harmonies are as strong as ever, and the instrumentation is lively and engaging. This song exemplifies the band’s ability to create music that is both entertaining and endearing.
For those who lived through the 60s, “Elenore” brings back fond memories of a time when music was full of innovation and joy. For newer generations, it offers a glimpse into the playful spirit and creativity of the era. The Turtles’ “Elenore” remains a timeless piece that continues to delight listeners with its humor, charm, and catchy melody.
You got a thing about you
I just can’t live without you
I really want you, Elenore, near me
Your looks intoxicate me
Even though your folks hate me
There’s no one like you, Elenore, really
Elenore, gee, I think you’re swell
And you really do me well
You’re my pride and joy, et cetera
Elenore, can I take the time
To ask you to speak your mind?
Tell me that you love me better
I really think you’re groovy
Let’s go out to a movie
What do you say, now, Elenore, can we?
They’ll turn the lights way down low
Maybe we won’t watch the show
I think I love you, Elenore, love me
Elenore, gee, I think you’re swell
And you really do me well
You’re my pride and joy, et cetera
Elenore, can I take the time
To ask you to speak your mind?
Tell me that you love me better
Elenore, gee, I think you’re swell, ah-ah
Elenore, gee, I think you’re swell, ah-ah
Ah
