About the song
“Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” penned by Bob Crewe and Bob Gaudio, stands as a timeless classic in the realm of pop music, originally recorded by Frankie Valli in 1967. This song not only became one of Valli’s biggest solo hits but also left an indelible mark on music history with its infectious melody and heartfelt lyrics.
Initially released as a single, “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” quickly ascended the charts, reaching the second position on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning Valli a gold record. Its success was not immediate, however. Bob Gaudio, reflecting on the song’s journey, referred to it as “the one that almost got away.” It was the intervention of CKLW, a prominent radio station in Windsor, Ontario, serving the Detroit area, that catapulted the song to fame. Program director Paul Drew was initially hesitant but was won over after hearing Valli perform it live at the Roostertail, a Detroit nightclub. The song’s addition to CKLW’s playlist sparked immediate listener enthusiasm, solidifying its place in pop culture history.
For Frankie Valli, “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” represented more than just a hit song. It marked a pivotal moment in his career, showcasing his vocal prowess without relying on his trademark falsetto. Valli saw it as a stepping stone towards a solo career, distinct from his work with The Four Seasons. Despite initial concerns from the record company about the band’s future, Valli remained committed to both his solo ambitions and his loyalty to The Four Seasons.
The song’s arrangement, crafted by Gaudio and Artie Schroeck, and produced by Bob Crewe at A & R Studio 2 in New York City, captured a blend of strong rhythm and heartfelt balladry. Its melodic structure has drawn comparisons to the Adagio from Aram Khachaturian’s ballet Spartacus, adding a classical touch to its contemporary pop appeal.
Beyond Valli’s rendition, “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” has been reimagined and covered in various styles, resonating with audiences across different eras and genres. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its universal appeal and emotional resonance, making it a beloved standard in the repertoire of classic pop songs.
In conclusion, “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” remains a cherished gem from the late 1960s, celebrated for its memorable melody, heartfelt lyrics, and Frankie Valli’s soulful interpretation. Its impact on music continues to endure, solidifying its status as a timeless classic beloved by listeners around the world.
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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