About the song
“Be My Baby,” released in August 1963 by the Ronettes on Philles Records, remains an iconic testament to the brilliance of producer Phil Spector and the irresistible charm of lead vocalist Ronnie Spector (Veronica Bennett). Co-written by Jeff Barry, Ellie Greenwich, and Phil Spector himself, the song swiftly became the Ronettes’ most significant hit, peaking at number 2 in the U.S. and number 4 in the UK. Its enduring popularity transcends generations, consistently appearing on lists of the best songs of the 1960s and even earning accolades as one of the greatest songs of all time.
The recording of “Be My Baby” marked a pivotal moment in music history. Phil Spector, renowned for his Wall of Sound technique, employed a full orchestra and his esteemed house band, later known as “the Wrecking Crew,” to craft a lush, symphonic arrangement at Gold Star Studios in Los Angeles. This approach created a rich musical backdrop that elevated the song’s emotional intensity and dramatic flair, setting a new standard in production quality.
At its core, “Be My Baby” captures a dynamic interplay of romance and assertiveness through its lyrics and composition. Set in E major, the song’s verse and chorus employ classic chord progressions that underscore its infectious melody and Ronnie Spector’s commanding vocals. Music journalist Marc Spitz noted that the song challenges traditional gender roles, portraying a woman’s confident pursuit of love with a blend of vulnerability and empowerment—a departure from the norm in pop music at the time.
The track’s production intricacies are equally legendary. The distinctive drum intro, famously initiated by Hal Blaine’s fortuitous drop of a drumstick, has since become one of the most recognizable motifs in popular music. Accompanied by sweeping strings, vibrant brass, and rhythmic handclaps, “Be My Baby” exemplifies Spector’s meticulous attention to detail and his quest for sonic perfection.
Beyond its musical innovations, “Be My Baby” has left an indelible mark on pop culture. It has been covered and referenced by countless artists, including a notable response from Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys with “Don’t Worry Baby.” The song’s inclusion in the U.S. National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress in 2006 further solidifies its cultural significance and enduring legacy.
For Ronnie Spector and the Ronettes, “Be My Baby” remains a defining moment in their career, eclipsing subsequent releases in popularity and influence. Its universal themes of love and longing continue to resonate with audiences worldwide, ensuring its place as an immortal classic that transcends time and genre.
Video
Lyrics
The night we met I knew I needed you so
And if I had the chance I’d never let you go
So won’t you say you love me?
I’ll make you so proud of me
We’ll make ’em turn their heads every place we go
So won’t you, please (be my, be my baby)
Be my little baby? (My one and only baby)
Say you’ll be my darlin’ (be my, be my baby)
Be my baby now (my one and only baby)
Whoa-oh-oh-oh
I’ll make you happy, baby, just wait and see
For every kiss you give me, I’ll give you three
Oh, since the day I saw you
I have been waiting for you
You know I will adore you ’til eternity
So won’t you, please (be my, be my baby)
Be my little baby? (My one and only baby)
Say you’ll be my darlin’ (be my, be my baby)
Be my baby now (my one and only baby)
Whoa-oh-oh-oh
So come on and, please (be my, be my baby)
Be my little baby? (My one and only baby)
Say you’ll be my darlin’ (be my, be my baby)
Be my baby now (my one and only baby)
Whoa-oh-oh-oh
Be my little baby? (My one and only baby)
Oh-oh-oh (be my, be my baby)
Oh (my one and only baby)
Whoa-oh-oh-oh (be my, be my baby)
Oh-oh-oh (My one and only baby)
Oh (be my, be my baby)