Retro Music 30

~ beetleypete

When most people of a certain age think of this song, they will hear the Mamas and Papas version in their heads. However, because my dad worked in the record business, I was aware of earlier versions years before the big hit from the famous American vocal group.

Written and released by The 5 Royales in 1957, it was re-released in 1961, and I got my copy then. Around the same time, the song was covered by The Shirelles, who also re-released their cover version the same year. (Which I also bought) In 1967, The Mamas and Papas picked up the song, and had a huge hit with it around the world. I still have a soft spot for the original, but it is such a good song that they all warrant listening to.

So here are all three versions.

This is dedicated to the one I love
While I’m far away from you, my baby
I know it’s hard for you, my baby
Because it’s hard for me, my baby
And the darkest hour is just before dawn
Each night before you go to bed, my baby
Whisper a little prayer for me, my baby
And tell all the stars above
This is dedicated to the one I love
Life can never be
Exactly like we want it to be
But I can be satisfied
Just knowing you love me
There’s one thing I want you to do
Especially for me
And it’s something that everybody needs
Each night before you go to bed, my baby
Whisper a little prayer for me, my baby
And tell all the stars above
This is dedicated to the one I love
This is dedicated to the one I love
This is dedicated to the one I love
Source: LyricFind
Songwriters: Lowman Pauling / Ralph Bass
Dedicated To The One I Love lyrics © Peermusic Publishing, Royalty Network, Universal Music Publishing Group

34 thoughts on “Retro Music 30”

  5. I only knew of the Mamas and Papas’ version and have always loved it. Since they’re one of my favorite groups, it’s hard for me to appreciate much the earlier versions. But interesting how the era shapes the sound of each.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

  7. I liked music that people could dance to as a couple. Do people ever dance like that anymore? It was a way of connecting to another person which we seem to have lost the ability to do. Says one who lives in isolation. What do I know? Those early videos of Michelle Phillips always make her seem like a wind-up doll. I find it creepy. Over here the news media now have to be slathered in make-up all the time. It’s very distracting because it is so badly done. The men all have very dark long eyebrows and the women huge fake eyelashes. Yuuk!

    Liked by 1 person

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      1. There are songs by The Mamas & the Papas that I cherish (e.g., “Monday, Monday”). And, of course, I remember their version of “Dedicated to the One I Love.” But before I read the comments here, I listened to all three versions, and cast my vote for the one sung by The Shirelles. Seeing that both of you agree with me, I decided to reply as opposed to writing a standalone comment.

        Liked by 1 person

        Reply
  16. Pingback: Retro Music 30 | Ned Hamson's Second Line View of the News

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