About the song
“Breaking Up Is Hard to Do” is a timeless classic that has been etched in the annals of music history since its release in 1962. The song, originally recorded by Shelley Fabares, was later made famous by Neil Sedaka, who took it to the top of the charts with his own rendition. This iconic tune has become synonymous with the struggles of love and heartbreak, resonating with listeners across generations.
Shelley Fabares, the talented pop singer and actress, was born on January 19, 1944, in Santa Monica, California. As the niece of actress Nanette Fabray, she was destined for stardom. Fabares’ career spanned multiple mediums, including music, film, and television. She starred alongside the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Elvis Presley, in three movies, cementing her status as a Hollywood darling.
Fabares’ music career was marked by her sweet, innocent voice and relatable lyrics. “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do” was one of her earliest hits, released as the B-side to “The Things We Did Last Summer” on Colpix Records. The song’s catchy melody and poignant lyrics captured the essence of a painful breakup, making it an instant hit with audiences.
The song’s success was not limited to Fabares’ original version. Neil Sedaka’s cover of “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do” reached number one on the charts in 1962, solidifying its place in the pantheon of classic pop songs. Sedaka’s version added a new layer of sophistication and polish to the song, making it a staple of the era’s musical landscape.
Today, “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do” remains a beloved classic, with its themes of love, loss, and longing continuing to resonate with listeners. Shelley Fabares’ original version, while less well-known than Sedaka’s, is a testament to her talent and enduring legacy in the music industry. As a cultural touchstone, “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do” continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike, ensuring its place as a timeless classic in the world of popular music.
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Lyrics
You tell me that you’re leavin’
I can’t believe it’s true!
Girl, there’s just no livin’ without you
Don’t take your love away from me
Don’t you leave my heart in misery
‘Cause if you go, then I’ll be blue
Breakin’ up is hard to do
Remember when you held me tight
And you kissed me all through the night
Think of all that we been through
And breakin’ up is hard to do
They say that breakin’ up is hard to do
Now I know, I know that it’s true
Don’t say that this is the end
Instead of breakin’ up I wish that
We were makin’ up again
I beg of you don’t say goodbye
Can’t we give our love just one more try?
Come on baby, let’s start anew
Breakin’ up is hard to do