About the song

Vikki Carr’s rendition of “It Must Be Him” is a quintessential example of the emotional power and interpretive depth that characterized the golden age of pop music. Released in 1967, the song quickly ascended the charts, becoming a signature tune for Carr and a beloved standard in the repertoire of countless vocalists.

Originally composed by the French singer-songwriter Gilbert Bécaud as “Seul Sur Son Étoile,” the song captured a universal theme of longing and desperation. The English lyrics, penned by Mack David, imbued the song with a raw vulnerability that resonated deeply with audiences.  

Carr’s interpretation of the song is nothing short of masterful. Her voice, rich and emotive, conveys a palpable sense of yearning and despair. She inhabits the character of the heartbroken woman with such authenticity that it is impossible not to be drawn into her world of longing and uncertainty.

The song’s arrangement is equally compelling. The lush orchestral accompaniment provides a dramatic backdrop for Carr’s vocals, while the subtle interplay of strings and brass creates a sense of both intimacy and grandeur. The production values are impeccable, reflecting the high standards of the era.

Beyond its commercial success, “It Must Be Him” has endured as a timeless classic due to its emotional resonance. The song speaks to the universal experience of heartbreak and the longing for lost love. It is a testament to the enduring power of music to connect with listeners on a profound level.

In the decades since its release, “It Must Be Him” has been covered by countless artists, but Carr’s version remains the definitive interpretation. Her performance is a masterclass in vocal delivery and emotional expression, and it is a testament to her enduring legacy as one of the greatest vocalists of her generation.

Video

Lyrics

I tell myself what’s done is doneI tell myself don’t be a foolPlay the field, have a lot of funIt’s easy when you play it cool
I tell myself don’t be a chumpWho cares, let him stay awayThat’s when the phone rings and I jumpAnd as I grab the phone I pray
Let it please be him, oh dear GodIt must be him, it must be himOr I shall dieOr I shall die
Oh hello, hello my dear GodIt must be him but it’s not himAnd then I dieThat’s when I die
After a while, I’m myself againI pick the pieces off the floorPut my heart on the shelf againYou’ll never hurt me anymore
I’m not a puppet on a stringI’ll find somebody else somedayThat’s when the phone rings, and once againI start to pray
Let it please be him, oh dear GodIt must be him , it must be himOr I shall dieOr I shall dieOh hello, hello my dear God
It must be him but it’s not himAnd then I dieOh then I die
Let it please be him, oh dear GodIt must be him , it must be himOr I shall dieOr I shall die