About the song
“Unchained Melody,” a timeless classic first released in 1955, has a fascinating history that highlights its enduring appeal. Composed by Alex North and with lyrics by Hy Zaret, the song was originally created as the theme for the film *Unchained*. North, who was asked to write a song for the movie, drew on a melody he had composed in the 1930s. He collaborated with Zaret to craft the lyrics, though Zaret initially resisted including the word “unchained,” which ultimately did not make it into the song. Instead, the lyrics focus on longing and separation, resonating deeply with listeners.
The song was first performed by Todd Duncan in the film’s soundtrack, where his rendition captured the mood of the movie’s storyline about a man contemplating escape from prison. Despite not winning the Best Song Oscar that year, “Unchained Melody” quickly gained popularity.
In 1955, the song saw multiple versions charting in both the U.S. and the U.K., setting records for its time. Notably, versions by Les Baxter, Al Hibbler, and Roy Hamilton all made the Billboard Top 10 in the U.S., and several versions also charted in the U.K., demonstrating its widespread appeal. The Righteous Brothers’ 1965 version, featuring Bobby Hatfield’s distinctive solo, became the definitive rendition for many and gained renewed popularity when featured in the 1990 film *Ghost*. This version even earned a place on AFI’s list of top movie songs.
Over the decades, “Unchained Melody” has been recorded by over 670 artists in various languages, amounting to more than 1,500 versions. Its status as a standard of American music is a testament to its emotional depth and timeless appeal. The song’s unique harmonic structure and poignant lyrics continue to touch the hearts of new generations, cementing its place in music history.
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Lyrics
Woah, my love, my darling
I’ve hungered for your touch
A long, lonely time
And time goes by so slowly
And time can do so much
Are you still mine?
I need your love
I need your love
God speed your love to me
Lonely rivers flow
To the sea, to the sea
To the open arms of the sea, yeah
Lonely rivers sigh
“Wait for me, wait for me”
I’ll be coming home, wait for me
Woah, my love, my darling
I’ve hungered, hungered for your touch
A long, lonely time
And time goes by so slowly
And time can do so much
Are you still mine?
I need your love
I need your love
God speed your love to me