About the song
Now that’s a song that brings back memories. It takes us right back to that golden age of rock and roll, the late 1950s, when a new sound was captivating the youth and forever changing the landscape of popular music.
The Everly Brothers themselves were pioneers in this revolution. Isaac Donald “Don” Everly and Phillip “Phil” Everly, born and raised in Kentucky, possessed voices that blended together in an almost preternatural harmony. Their sound was both youthful and earnest, perfectly capturing the burgeoning rock and roll spirit while retaining a touch of their country roots.
“Devoted to You”, released in 1958, is a prime example of this winning formula. Written by the legendary songwriting duo Felice and Boudleaux Bryant, the song is a declaration of unwavering love and commitment. The Bryants, incidentally, were responsible for a string of Everly Brothers’ hits, including “Bye Bye Love” and “Wake Up Little Susie.”
But “Devoted to You” stands out for its sweetness and sincerity. The gentle acoustic guitar strumming sets the scene for a heartfelt vow. The Everly brothers take turns singing lead, their voices intertwining seamlessly as they reassure their beloved of their devotion. Listen closely, and you can hear a touch of vulnerability beneath the surface, a yearning for reciprocation that adds depth to the song’s emotional core.
“Devoted to You” wasn’t just a hit with teenagers. It transcended age and genre, reaching No. 10 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and even landing on the country and rhythm and blues charts. This crossover appeal is a testament to the song’s universal message of love and fidelity. It became a popular choice for weddings and a mainstay of doo-wop groups, solidifying its place in rock and roll history.
The song’s enduring popularity is also due, in no small part, to its timeless quality. Unlike some of its contemporaries that were heavily reliant on the latest fads, “Devoted to You” taps into something fundamental: the human desire for connection and unwavering love. It’s a sentiment that resonates as strongly today as it did in 1958.
So, when you hear the opening chords of “Devoted to You”, take a moment to appreciate not just a great song, but a piece of rock and roll history. It’s a reminder of the power of vocal harmony, heartfelt songwriting, and a message that continues to touch hearts across generations.
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Lyrics
“Devoted To You”
Till the sun dries up the sea
Until then I’ll always be devoted to you
I’ll be yours through endless time
I’ll adore your charms sublime
Guess by now you know that I’m devoted to you
I’ll never hurt you, I’ll never lie
I’ll never be untrue
I’ll never give you reason to cry
I’d be unhappy if you were blue
Through the years my love will grow
Like a river it will flow
It can’t die because I’m so devoted to you
I’ll never hurt you, I’ll never lie
I’ll never be untrue
I’ll never give you reason to cry
I’d be unhappy if you were blue
Through the years my love will grow
Like a river it will flow
It can’t die because I’m so devoted to you