About the song
“I’m Sorry” catapulted Brenda Lee to stardom in 1960, marking a pivotal moment in music history with its poignant lyrics and Brenda’s youthful yet powerful voice. At just 15 years old, Brenda Lee’s rendition of the song climbed to the coveted No. 1 position on the Billboard Hot 100 in July 1960, solidifying her as a teen sensation and a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
Co-written by Dub Allbritten and Ronnie Self, “I’m Sorry” captured the hearts of listeners with its heartfelt expression of remorse and longing. Recorded by Brenda Lee early in the year, Decca Records initially hesitated to release the track, concerned that its themes of unrequited love might not resonate with audiences expecting more mature subject matter from a young female artist. As a compromise, “I’m Sorry” was chosen as the B-side to her single “That’s All You Gotta Do.”
However, fate had other plans. While “That’s All You Gotta Do” enjoyed moderate success, reaching No. 6 on the Hot 100, it was “I’m Sorry” that stole the spotlight, skyrocketing to the top of the charts and becoming a cultural phenomenon. Brenda Lee’s emotional delivery and the song’s relatable lyrics struck a chord with listeners across the country, propelling it to become one of the defining hits of the early 1960s.
Beyond its initial success, “I’m Sorry” has endured as a classic, covered by numerous artists and featured in various advertising campaigns over the years. Its timeless appeal lies in its universal themes of love, heartbreak, and regret, encapsulated in Brenda Lee’s soulful rendition that transcended generational boundaries.
Recognized for its impact on popular music, “I’m Sorry” remains a testament to Brenda Lee’s talent and resilience as a young artist navigating the complexities of fame and artistic expression. Its legacy continues to resonate, not only as a chart-topping hit but also as a cultural touchstone that has left an indelible mark on the fabric of American music history.
Video
Lyrics
I’m sorry, so sorry
That I was such a fool
I didn’t know
Love could be so cruel
Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh yes
You tell me mistakes
Are part of being young
But that don’t right
The wrong that’s been done
I’m sorry
(So sorry) So sorry
Please accept my apology
But love is blind
And I was too blind to see
Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh yes
You tell me mistakes
Are part of being young
But that don’t right
The wrong that’s been done
Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, yes
I’m sorry, so sorry
Please accept my apology
But love was blind
And I was too blind to see
(Sorry)