I Still Love You – The Righteous Brothers

About the song

Ah, yes, The Righteous Brothers’ “I Still Love You”. This 1965 classic is a cornerstone of blue-eyed soul, a subgenre that emerged in the early 1960s and blended elements of R&B, gospel, and pop music. While the term “blue-eyed soul” might conjure images of white singers appropriating Black musical styles, The Righteous Brothers were one of the few exceptions. Their sound was deeply respectful and authentic, drawing heavily on the gospel roots of both Bill Medley and Bobby Hatfield.

“I Still Love You” perfectly encapsulates the raw emotional core of blue-eyed soul. The song opens with a simple piano figure, setting the stage for Medley’s achingly beautiful vocals. The lyrics paint a picture of a love that endures heartbreak. The narrator watches as their beloved goes from relationship to relationship, only to return to them when things fall apart. Despite the pain this cycle inflicts, the narrator’s love remains constant: “When somebody puts you down / And your hearts gets kicked around / Every time you love and lose / You run to me with your bad news”

The emotional intensity builds throughout the song. Medley’s voice cracks with vulnerability in the lines “I don’t wanna see you cry anymore / I don’t wanna see the tears in your eyes anymore” Here, we see the narrator’s internal conflict. While they yearn for a permanent commitment, they also can’t bear to see the one they love suffer. This selfless devotion adds another layer of depth to the song’s emotional resonance.

However, “I Still Love You” isn’t all about sorrow. The driving beat and soaring harmonies, particularly in the unforgettable chorus “I still love you (I still love you) / I still need you (I still need you) / And I still want you (I still want you) / ‘Cause you’re my baby (I still love you)” inject a glimmer of hope. The narrator’s love, though tested, remains strong. Perhaps this enduring love will eventually be reciprocated, leading to a lasting connection.

The success of “I Still Love You” cemented The Righteous Brothers’ place in music history. The song reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1965 and has since been covered by countless artists. It’s a timeless ballad that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of soul music or simply appreciate a beautifully crafted song about love and loss, “I Still Love You” is a must-listen.

Video

Lyrics

“I Still Love You”