“Release Me (And Let Me Love Again)” is a power ballad that propelled Engelbert Humperdinck to international stardom in 1967. Humperdinck, born Arnold Dorsey in Madras, India, is a British pop singer known for his romantic ballads and distinctive baritone voice. While he’d been performing for years, “Release Me” became his breakthrough hit, catapulting him to the forefront of the music scene. He is known for hits such as “The Last Waltz” and “A Man Without Love”.
The song’s success was phenomenal. “Release Me” famously kept The Beatles’ “Penny Lane/Strawberry Fields Forever” off the number one spot on the UK Singles Chart, reaching number one and staying there for six weeks. It also cracked the top ten in the US Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number four, and topped charts in several other countries. The unexpected success of “Release Me” revived the traditional ballad format in an era dominated by rock and pop, paving the way for other singers of a similar style.
Lyrically, “Release Me” is a plea from a lover who is trapped in an unhappy relationship and desperately desires to be freed to pursue a new love. The singer begs their partner to release them from their promise of commitment, acknowledging the pain it will cause but emphasizing the greater unhappiness of remaining together. The raw emotion and vulnerability conveyed in the lyrics resonated deeply with audiences.
“Release Me” continues to be a beloved classic. Audience feedback has consistently highlighted the song’s emotional impact and Humperdinck’s powerful vocal performance. It’s often praised for its timeless quality and ability to evoke feelings of longing and heartache. The song has become a karaoke staple and a popular choice for weddings and anniversaries, despite its rather melancholic theme, demonstrating its enduring appeal and its place in popular culture.
