About the song
Brenda Lee’s 1962 hit, “All Alone Am I,” isn’t your typical American pop song. This melancholic ballad boasts a fascinating backstory, taking listeners on a journey across the Atlantic Ocean. Originally composed by the acclaimed Greek composer Manos Hadjidakis, the song found its first life under the title “Μην τον ρωτάς τον ουρανό” (“Min ton rotas ton ourano”) sung by Greek actress Tzeni Karezi for the film “To nisi ton genneon” (The Island of the Brave).
The melody’s captivating nature transcended borders. Following the international success of the film “Never on Sunday” (another Hadjidakis composition that won an Academy Award), the melody that would become “All Alone Am I” caught the attention of Brenda Lee’s management. With English lyrics penned by Arthur Altman, the song was reborn for a new audience.
“All Alone Am I” proved to be a powerful vehicle for Lee’s soulful vocals. The song’s poignant lyrics resonated deeply, capturing the universal ache of loneliness and longing. It became a major hit on both sides of the Atlantic, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US and the UK Singles Chart. Interestingly, the song achieved even greater success on the US Billboard easy listening chart, spending a dominant five weeks at the number one spot. This feat solidified Lee’s status as a versatile vocalist, capable of delivering both upbeat pop anthems and heart-wrenching ballads.
The story of “All Alone Am I” reminds us of the power of music to transcend language and cultural barriers. A melody born in Greece found new life in the voice of an American teenager, connecting with audiences worldwide. This enduring classic continues to resonate with listeners today, a testament to the universality of human emotions and the enduring power of a well-crafted song.
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Lyrics
All alone am I ever since your goodbye
All alone with just the beat of my heart
People all around but I don’t hear a sound
Just the lonely beating of my heart
No use in holding other hands
For I’d be holding only emptiness
No use in kissing other lips
For I’d be thinking just of your caress
All alone am I ever since your goodbye
All alone with just the beat of my heart
People all around but I don’t hear a sound
Just the lonely beating of my heart
No other voice can say the words
My heart must hear to ever sing again
The words you used to whisper low
No other love can ever bring again
All alone am I ever since your goodbye
All alone with just the beat of my heart
People all around but I don’t hear a sound
Just the lonely beating of my heart
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