About the song
“Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” written by Bob Crewe and Bob Gaudio, stands as one of the defining hits of Frankie Valli’s solo career. Initially recorded and released in 1967, the song achieved significant acclaim, earning Valli a gold record and reaching the impressive position of No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts. This success solidified its place as Valli’s biggest solo hit until “My Eyes Adored You” claimed the No. 1 spot in 1975.
The song’s journey to prominence wasn’t without its challenges. Bob Gaudio, reflecting on its origins, described it as “the one that almost got away” before the intervention of Windsor, Ontario’s radio station CKLW. This influential station, known for launching hit records across the Great Lakes region, initially hesitated but ultimately embraced the song after witnessing Valli’s compelling live performance at the Roostertail. The public response was immediate and overwhelming, catapulting “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” into mainstream success.
For Frankie Valli, the song marked a significant departure from the falsetto-driven style of his Four Seasons days, aligning with his desire to explore new musical avenues. Despite initial reservations from his record company, Valli’s commitment to the song and his vision for his solo career prevailed, showcasing his versatility and enduring appeal as a vocalist.
“Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” has transcended its original release, inspiring numerous cover versions that have charted around the world. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless melody and emotionally resonant lyrics, which continue to captivate audiences across generations.
The original recording, crafted at A & R Studio 2 in New York City with Bob Crewe producing and Phil Ramone engineering, remains a classic example of the era’s strong rhythm ballad style. Billboard praised its exceptional vocal delivery by Valli and the vibrant arrangement by Artie Schroeck, while Cash Box hailed its smooth and gentle romanticism.
Beyond its initial success, “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” found new life in 1982 when San Francisco-based post-disco band Boys Town Gang released a dance version that topped charts in multiple European countries and Japan. This rendition, characterized by its infectious energy and reinterpretation of the song’s soulful essence, further solidified its status as a beloved and versatile piece in the pop music canon.
Video
Lyrics
You’re just too good to be true
Can’t take my eyes off of you
You’d be like Heaven to touch
I wanna hold you so much
At long last, love has arrived
And I thank God I’m alive
You’re just too good to be true
Can’t take my eyes off of you
Pardon the way that I stare
There’s nothin’ else to compare
The sight of you leaves me weak
There are no words left to speak
But if you feel like I feel
Please let me know that it’s real
You’re just too good to be true
Can’t take my eyes off of you
I love you, baby
And if it’s quite alright
I need you, baby
To warm the lonely night
I love you, baby
Trust in me when I say
Oh, pretty baby
Don’t bring me down, I pray
Oh, pretty baby
Now that I’ve found you, stay
And let me love you, baby
Let me love you
You’re just too good to be true
Can’t take my eyes off of you
You’d be like Heaven to touch
I wanna hold you so much
At long last, love has arrived
And I thank God I’m alive
You’re just too good to be true
Can’t take my eyes off you
I love you, baby
And if it’s quite alright
I need you, baby
To warm the lonely night
I love you, baby
Trust in me when I say
Oh, pretty baby
Don’t bring me down, I pray
Oh, pretty baby
Now that I’ve found you, stay
Oh, pretty baby
Trust in me when I say
Oh, pretty baby