About the song
“This Old Heart of Mine” by The Isley Brothers is a soulful classic that continues to resonate with audiences, showcasing the group’s exceptional vocal prowess and emotional depth. Released in 1966, this song is one of the Isley Brothers’ most enduring hits, blending rich melodies with poignant lyrics. The Isley Brothers, composed of brothers Ronald, O’Kelly, and Rudolph Isley, along with their cousin, Marvin Isley, were known for their versatile sound and ability to cross musical genres seamlessly.
The song was written by the prolific songwriting duo of Holland-Dozier-Holland, who were pivotal in shaping the Motown sound. “This Old Heart of Mine” was featured on the album of the same name, which further solidified the Isley Brothers’ status as Motown legends and showcased their ability to deliver deep, heartfelt performances.
Upon its release, “This Old Heart of Mine” achieved significant success, reaching number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 3 on the Billboard R&B chart. The song’s emotive lyrics and captivating melody struck a chord with listeners, making it a favorite on radio stations and among fans of soulful music. The track’s blend of rich harmonies and passionate vocals made it a standout hit of its time.
The lyrics of “This Old Heart of Mine” speak to themes of love and heartbreak, with lines like “This old heart of mine, been broken a thousand times” encapsulating the pain and longing of lost love. Ronald Isley’s powerful lead vocals bring these emotions to life, delivering a performance that is both compelling and deeply moving. The harmonies provided by the Isley Brothers add a lush, soulful quality to the track, enhancing its emotional impact.
The Isley Brothers’ performance on this song is a testament to their incredible vocal talent and their ability to convey deep emotion through their music. The production, characterized by its lush instrumentation and sophisticated sound, exemplifies the classic Motown style that has captivated generations of listeners.
“This Old Heart of Mine” remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its emotional depth and musical brilliance. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of The Isley Brothers and their ability to create music that resonates across decades. For those who lived through the 1960s, the song evokes memories of a vibrant musical era, and for newer generations, it offers a glimpse into the rich legacy of Motown’s greatest hits. The song’s lasting popularity is a tribute to the incredible talent of The Isley Brothers and the powerful impact of their music.
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Lyrics
This old heart of mine been broke a thousand times
Each time you break away, I fear you’ve gone to stay
Lonely nights that come, memories that flow, bringing you back again
Hurting me more and more
Maybe it’s my mistake to show this love I feel inside
‘Cause each day that passes by you got me
Never knowing if I’m coming or going, but I, I love you
This old heart darling, is weak for you
I love you, yes, I do
These old arms of mine miss having you around
Makes these tears inside start a-falling down
Always with half a kiss
You remind me of what I miss
Though I try to control myself
Like a fool I start grinnin’ ’cause my head starts spinnin’ ’cause I
I love you
This is old heart, darling is weak for you
I love you, yes I do, yes I do
Ooh, I try hard to hide, my hurt inside
This old heart of mine always keeps me cryin’
The way you’re treating me, leaves me incomplete
You’re here for the day, gone for the week now
But if you leave me a hundred times
A hundred times I’ll take you back
I’m yours whenever you want me
I’m not too proud to shout it, tell the world about it ’cause I
I love you
This is old heart, darling is weak for you
I love you
This is old heart, darling is weak for you
I love you
This is old heart, darling is weak for you
I love you, yes I do, yes I do
I love you, yes I do, darling is weak for you