Another amazing recording; it's 1965 and Burt Bacharach is conducting an orchestra at Abbey Road studios with Cilla Black singing 'Alfie' which is due to be the theme of the forthcoming movie.
It's around the 40th take and he's still not happy with Cilla's singing. George Martin is the producer, at the mixing consol with pursed lips. The orchestra wants to go off and get a cup of tea.
Cilla Black isn't giving up - she worked as a cloakroom attendant at The Cavern Club, which is how she got discovered as a singer; through knowing The Beatles who write songs for her and through Brian Epstein, The Beatles manager.
The film isn't that great but the lyrics to the song (by Hal David) make it something very special.
What's it all about, Alfie?
Is it just for the moment we live?
What's it all about when you sort it out, Alfie?
Are we meant to take more than we give
or are we meant to be kind?
And if only fools are kind, Alfie,
then I guess it's wise to be cruel.
And if life belongs only to the strong, Alfie,
what will you lend on an old golden rule?
As sure as I believe there's a heaven above, Alfie,
I know there's something much more,
something even non-believers can believe in.
I believe in love, Alfie.
Without true love we just exist, Alfie.
Until you find the love you've missed you're nothing, Alfie.
When you walk let your heart lead the way
and you'll find love any day, Alfie, Alfie.
At least it's very special to me.
Here's the link to the final take;
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZAuoNa5g6i8
Neil Harris
(a don't stop till you drop production)
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Those are some powerful words.
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