About the song
Engelbert Humperdinck’s timeless ballad, “After the Lovin’,” is a poignant reflection on the bittersweet aftermath of a romantic relationship. Released in 1976, this single not only showcased Humperdinck’s velvety smooth vocals but also marked a significant turning point in his career. Produced by the dynamic duo of Joel Diamond and Charlie Calello, and penned by the talented songwriting pair of Ritchie Adams and Alan Bernstein, “After the Lovin'” resonated deeply with audiences worldwide.
The song’s narrative is both universal and deeply personal. It paints a vivid picture of the emotional turmoil that often accompanies the end of a love affair. Humperdinck’s emotive delivery captures the longing and heartache that linger long after the initial pain has subsided. The lyrics, while simple, are incredibly evocative, conjuring up images of a couple grappling with the complexities of love and loss.
Upon its release, “After the Lovin'” quickly climbed the charts, becoming a top-ten hit in both the United States and Canada. Its success can be attributed to several factors, including Humperdinck’s undeniable star power, the song’s catchy melody, and the relatable themes it explored. The single also earned RIAA gold certification, solidifying its status as a commercial success.
Interestingly, “After the Lovin'” also crossed over to the country charts, reaching number forty. This was a significant achievement for Humperdinck, who had a strong country music background but had yet to break into the genre’s mainstream. The song’s success in both the pop and country markets further demonstrated its broad appeal.
Beyond its commercial success, “After the Lovin'” also garnered critical acclaim. The album of the same name was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male, a testament to the high quality of Humperdinck’s work. While the song may have failed to chart in the United Kingdom, it remains a beloved classic among fans around the world.
“After the Lovin'” is more than just a popular song; it’s a timeless piece of music that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. Its enduring appeal can be attributed to its heartfelt lyrics, memorable melody, and Humperdinck’s soulful performance. For those who appreciate classic pop ballads and the emotional depth of great songwriting, “After the Lovin'” is a must-listen.
Video
Lyrics
So I sing you to sleep after the lovin’
With a song I just wrote yesterday
And I hope you can hear
What the words and the music have to say
It’s so hard to explain everything that I’m feelin’
Face to face, I just seem to go dry
But I love you so much
That the sound of your voice can get me high
Thanks for takin’ me (thanks for taking me)
On a one way trip to the sun (one way trip to the sun)
And thanks for turning me (turning me)
Into someone (someone)
So I sing you to sleep after the lovin’
I brush back the hair from your eyes
And the love on your face
Is so real that it makes me wanna cry
And I know that my song
Isn’t sayin’ anything new
Oh, but after the lovin’
I’m still in love with you
So I sing you to sleep after the lovin’
I brush back the hair from your eyes (after the lovin’)
And the love on your face
Is so real that it makes me wanna cry (your love is real, it makes me cry)
And I know that my song
Isn’t sayin’ anything new
Oh, but after the lovin’ (after the lovin’)
I’m still in love with you
Yes, after the lovin’ (after the lovin’)
I’m still in love with you
Hmm, after the lovin’
I’m still in love with you
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