About the song
“Be My Baby” stands as a timeless classic by American girl group the Ronettes, released in August 1963 on Philles Records. Penned by Jeff Barry, Ellie Greenwich, and Phil Spector, this iconic song soared to number 2 on the U.S. charts and number 4 in the UK, cementing its place as one of the defining tracks of the 1960s. Its enduring popularity is underscored by frequent radio and television play, totaling over 3 million broadcasts.
Phil Spector, renowned for his innovative Wall of Sound production technique, orchestrated “Be My Baby” at Gold Star Studios with his famed session musicians, later known as “the Wrecking Crew.” This marked Spector’s first recording with a full orchestra, achieving a lush, symphonic quality that became synonymous with his musical legacy. Ronnie Spector (Veronica Bennett) provided the lead vocals, infusing the song with her distinctive voice and magnetic presence.
The composition’s influence reverberated across the music industry, inspiring artists like Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys, who responded with the hit “Don’t Worry Baby.” Its drum intro, widely recognized as one of pop music’s most iconic, has been replicated in numerous covers and adaptations. In recognition of its cultural significance, the Library of Congress inducted the Ronettes’ recording into the United States National Recording Registry in 2006.
“Be My Baby” reflects Spector’s infatuation with Ronnie Spector, a theme woven into the song’s creation amidst Spector’s personal struggles. This romantic undercurrent, coupled with Ronnie’s powerful vocals and the song’s intricate arrangement, contributed to its enduring appeal.
The track’s production features a rich tapestry of instruments—from guitars and piano to strings and brass—culminating in a crescendo of sound that remains emotionally resonant. The lyrics, set in E major, follow a doo-wop progression, showcasing both vulnerability and assertiveness in Ronnie’s plea to “be my baby.”
Ultimately, “Be My Baby” encapsulates the essence of 1960s pop, blending Phil Spector’s visionary production with the Ronettes’ captivating performance to create a song that continues to captivate listeners and inspire generations of musicians.
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)