About the song
Ben E. King, the soulful voice behind hits like “Stand by Me” and “Don’t Play That Song (You Lied),” delivered another heartfelt ballad with “Seven Letters” in 1964. This poignant song, featuring King’s signature smooth vocals, explores themes of love, loss, and longing.
“Seven Letters” tells the story of a man who has been away from his loved one for an extended period. He expresses his deep longing and regret for their separation, writing seven letters to her as a way to connect with her from afar. King’s emotive delivery captures the raw emotion and vulnerability of the protagonist, making the song a relatable and moving experience.
The song’s simple yet effective melody, coupled with King’s heartfelt lyrics, creates a timeless atmosphere. The arrangement is sparse, allowing King’s vocals to take center stage and convey the song’s emotional depth.
“Seven Letters” was a commercial success, reaching #11 on the U.S. R&B chart and #45 on the Billboard chart in 1964. Its popularity led to several covers by other artists, including Derrick Morgan, Delroy Wilson, and Warren Storm. These versions further solidified the song’s legacy as a classic of soul music.
“Seven Letters” remains a poignant and enduring ballad that continues to touch the hearts of listeners. Ben E. King’s masterful performance and the song’s timeless message make it a must-listen for fans of classic soul music.
Video
Lyrics
This is my last letter
Dear, to you
This is my last letter, baby
I just can’t write you anymore
My poor little finger’s swollen
I’m tired of pacing the floor, yes, I am
Threw away our favorite record
It was tearing me apart
This is my seventh letter, baby
Just to satisfy my heart
(One) Monday, I wrote and told you
I was all alone and blue
(Two) Tuesday, I wrote again, baby
I said I loved no one, no one
No one but you, no, I don’t
(Three) Wednesday, I wired you a cable
Begging you to call
(Four) Thursday, I sent the message
I said I was wrong and, darling
Please come back home
(Five) Friday, I woke up crying
With the sniff of a tear
(Six) come along long lonesome Saturday
I did the same thing all over again
Yes, I did
(Seven) this is my seventh letter, baby
On this bright Sunday morning
Just got off my knees from praying
I said, Oh, Lord, oh, Lord
Please send her back home
Can’t she hear me talking to her
(This is my last letter
Dear, to you)
Seven letters, seven days
Seven long, lonely days
There, I said it
(This is my last letter
Dear, to you) yes, it is
Yes, it is, yes, it is
Oh, yes, it is