About the song
Gene Pitney, a name synonymous with the golden era of pop music, gifted us with a treasure trove of timeless hits. Among these, “Something’s Gotten Hold of My Heart” stands as a particularly enduring gem. Released in 1968, this heart-wrenching ballad quickly captured the hearts of listeners worldwide, and its impact continues to resonate today.
Originally recorded by Marc Almond for his 1988 album “The Stars We Are,” the song truly soared to new heights when it was re-recorded as a duet between Almond and Pitney. Their harmonious vocals and the emotional depth of the lyrics created a poignant and unforgettable listening experience. The single version, released in 1989, quickly climbed the charts, reaching number one in the UK for an impressive four weeks.
What makes this song so special? It’s a masterful blend of melodic beauty and raw emotion. The lyrics, penned by Roger Cook and Roger Greenaway, paint a vivid picture of love’s overwhelming power. The line “Something’s gotten hold of my heart, and I’m so glad it’s you” perfectly encapsulates the all-consuming nature of love.
The song’s timeless appeal can be attributed to several factors. First, its universal theme of love and longing resonates with people of all ages and backgrounds. Second, the catchy melody and memorable chorus make it easy to sing along to, even after just one listen. And third, the duet between Almond and Pitney adds an extra layer of complexity and emotional depth to the song.
The music video for this version, filmed on-location in Las Vegas, further enhanced the song’s popularity. The visuals complement the lyrics perfectly, creating a romantic and nostalgic atmosphere.
In conclusion, “Something’s Gotten Hold of My Heart” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone that has stood the test of time. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the power of music to connect people on a deep emotional level. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Gene Pitney or simply appreciate great music, this song is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Video
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