About the song
“Will You Love Me Tomorrow,” also known as “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow,” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences decades after its initial release. Penned by the prolific songwriting duo Gerry Goffin and Carole King, the song first saw the light of day in 1960 when it was recorded by the American girl group, The Shirelles. This version, produced at Bell Sound Studios in New York City, marked a significant milestone in music history as it became the first number one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for an African-American all-girl group.
The Shirelles’ rendition of “Will You Love Me Tomorrow” quickly garnered acclaim and commercial success. The track’s evocative lyrics and haunting melody, combined with the soulful vocal performance of lead singer Shirley Owens (later known as Shirley Alston-Reeves), captured the complexities of young love and vulnerability. Despite initial reservations from Owens about the song’s “country” feel, the addition of a string arrangement helped to bring the song to life, and it quickly overcame early objections from some radio stations who found the lyrics controversial.
The song’s success was not confined to the United States; it also achieved remarkable chart positions internationally, reaching number four in the UK and number three in New Zealand. Its popularity was underscored by its inclusion in Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time and its ranking as number three in Billboard’s 100 Greatest Girl Group Songs of All Time. Furthermore, its induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999 cemented its place in music history.
In 1971, Carole King, who co-wrote the song, recorded her own version for her critically acclaimed album *Tapestry*. King’s rendition was notably slower and imbued with a sense of mature reflection, featuring background vocals by Joni Mitchell and James Taylor. This version highlighted a more introspective approach, contrasting with The Shirelles’ original interpretation and adding a new dimension to the song’s legacy.
Over the years, “Will You Love Me Tomorrow” has been covered by a diverse array of artists, reflecting its enduring appeal. Notable versions include those by The Four Seasons, Linda Ronstadt, Roberta Flack, and even contemporary artists like Amy Winehouse and Kelly Clarkson. Each interpretation brings its unique flavor to the song, underscoring its versatility and timeless relevance.
As a testament to its impact, the song was featured prominently in the 2013 Broadway musical *Beautiful: The Carole King Musical*, illustrating its significant role in both popular culture and the personal history of its creators. From its groundbreaking debut to its continued influence, “Will You Love Me Tomorrow” remains a quintessential piece of American music, cherished by generations of listeners.
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Lyrics
Tonight you’re mine completely
You give your love so sweetly
Tonight the light of love is in your eyes
But will you love me tomorrow?
Is this a lasting treasure
Or just a moment’s pleasure?
Can I believe the magic of your sighs?
Will you still love me tomorrow?
Tonight with words unspoken
You say that I’m the only one
But will my heart be broken
When the night (when the night)
Meets the morning (meets the morning) sun?
I’d like to know that your love
Is a love I can be sure of
So tell me now, and I won’t ask again
Will you still love me tomorrow?
So tell me now, and I won’t ask again
Will you still love me tomorrow?
Will you still love me tomorrow?
Will you still love me?