Engelbert Humperdinck, born Arnold Dorsey in Madras, India, is a British pop singer renowned for his romantic ballads and charismatic stage presence. His breakthrough came in 1967 with the release of “Release Me (And Let Me Love Again),” a song that catapulted him to international stardom. Prior to this, Dorsey struggled to gain recognition, even adopting the stage name Gerry Dorsey for a period. It was his manager who suggested the name Engelbert Humperdinck, borrowing it from the 19th-century German composer, a move that proved undeniably successful.
“Release Me” wasn’t an original Humperdinck composition; it had been recorded previously by various artists, including Little Esther Phillips, but Humperdinck’s version became the definitive rendition. The song, with its plea for freedom from a love that can no longer be reciprocated, resonated deeply with audiences. It’s a raw expression of heartache, where the singer acknowledges the other person’s desire to move on but desperately requests to be released gracefully, rather than held captive in a loveless relationship. The lyrics, “Release me, let me go, I don’t love you anymore,” are surprisingly straightforward, yet delivered with a powerful emotional vulnerability that became Humperdinck’s signature.
“Release Me” became a massive hit, famously keeping The Beatles’ “Penny Lane/Strawberry Fields Forever” off the number one spot on the UK charts, reaching number one and staying there for six weeks. It also charted highly internationally, solidifying Humperdinck’s place in music history. The song’s success propelled him to win numerous awards and nominations, establishing him as a significant figure in the easy listening and pop music scenes.
The song continues to resonate with listeners today. Audience feedback consistently praises Humperdinck’s powerful vocals and the song’s relatable themes of heartbreak and longing. The enduring popularity of “Release Me” is a testament to its timeless quality and Humperdinck’s ability to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level. It remains a staple on oldies radio stations and continues to be performed by Humperdinck in his concerts worldwide.
