About the song
“Only You (And You Alone)” is a timeless pop classic that embodies the essence of heartfelt romance and enduring musical appeal. Originally penned by Buck Ram, the song found its definitive rendition through The Platters, featuring the soulful lead vocals of Tony Williams, in 1955.
The journey of “Only You” began with The Platters’ initial recording session for Federal Records in May 1954, though the version that captured hearts was re-recorded later under Mercury Records on April 26, 1955. This iteration struck a chord with listeners upon its release in May of that year, swiftly climbing the charts to become a beloved hit. Interestingly, the song’s journey to success wasn’t without its twists: the original recording, released by Federal Records in November 1955 as a B-side to “You Made Me Cry,” initially saw limited success, but it was the reimagined Mercury version that truly resonated with audiences.
The magic of “Only You” lies not only in its melodic simplicity but also in the unique vocal delivery by Tony Williams. According to Herb Reed, the bass singer of The Platters, the song’s breakthrough moment came unexpectedly during a car rehearsal session when Tony’s voice naturally cracked on the word “Only,” creating an emotional resonance that the group instantly recognized as special. This authentic, spontaneous expression was preserved in the final recording, enhancing the song’s emotive power.
The song’s impact was profound, topping the U.S. R&B charts for an impressive seven weeks and securing the fifth position on the Billboard Top 100. Its popularity was further cemented by appearances in notable venues like the 1956 film “Rock Around the Clock,” where The Platters showcased both “Only You” and their subsequent hit “The Great Pretender.”
The enduring legacy of “Only You” is underscored by its enduring popularity and recognition. In 1999, the 1955 recording of the song was honored with induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame, solidifying its status as a seminal piece in the pantheon of pop music history.
Across decades and generations, “Only You” continues to captivate audiences with its timeless message of love and longing, proving that its place in musical history remains as steadfast as the emotions it evokes.
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Lyrics
Only you can make all this world seem right
Only you can make the darkness bright
Only you and you alone can thrill me like you do
And fill my heart with love for only you
Oh, only you can do make all this change in me
For it’s true, you are my destiny
When you hold my hand I understand the magic that you do
You’re my dream come true, my one and only you
Oh oh, only you can do make this change in me
For it’s true, you are my destiny
When you hold my hand I understand the magic that you do
You’re my dream come true, my one and only you