Engelbert Humperdinck’s “What Now My Love” is a masterful rendition of a song that has captured hearts worldwide with its profound emotional depth and powerful vocal performance. Released in 1966, this track became one of Humperdinck’s signature songs, showcasing his exceptional ability to convey complex emotions through his rich, resonant voice.
The song, originally titled “Et maintenant,” was written by French composer Gilbert Bécaud and lyricist Pierre Delanoë. The English lyrics were penned by Carl Sigman, transforming the song into “What Now My Love”. The song was included in Humperdinck’s debut album, “Release Me,” which catapulted him to international stardom. The album itself is a testament to Humperdinck’s versatile talent, featuring a mix of pop standards and contemporary hits.
“What Now My Love” is a poignant ballad that delves into the depths of heartbreak and despair. The lyrics depict a narrator who is grappling with the aftermath of a failed relationship, contemplating a future devoid of purpose or direction. The opening lines, “What now my love, now that you left me / How can I live through another day,” immediately set the tone for a song steeped in melancholy and longing. Humperdinck’s delivery of these lines is nothing short of breathtaking, as he imbues each word with a palpable sense of sorrow and vulnerability.
The song’s musical arrangement further enhances its emotional impact. The lush orchestration, featuring sweeping strings and a dramatic piano accompaniment, creates a grandiose backdrop that complements Humperdinck’s powerful vocals. This dynamic interplay between voice and instrumentation amplifies the song’s dramatic arc, taking listeners on an emotional journey from despondency to resignation.
“What Now My Love” has had a significant impact on both popular music and culture. Over the years, it has been covered by numerous artists, including Frank Sinatra, Shirley Bassey, and Elvis Presley, each bringing their unique interpretation to the song. However, Humperdinck’s version remains one of the most beloved and enduring renditions, thanks to his distinctive voice and heartfelt performance.
The song’s themes of love, loss, and existential reflection resonate with listeners of all ages, making it a timeless classic. For older audiences, in particular, the song evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminding them of the emotional experiences that have shaped their lives. Humperdinck’s ability to connect with his audience on such a deep emotional level is a testament to his artistry and the enduring power of “What Now My Love.”
In conclusion, Engelbert Humperdinck‘s “What Now My Love” is a profound and moving song that captures the essence of heartache and introspection. Its inclusion in the “Release Me” album marks a significant milestone in Humperdinck’s career, solidifying his reputation as one of the greatest vocalists of his time. The song’s rich emotional tapestry, coupled with Humperdinck’s extraordinary vocal performance, ensures that it will continue to touch the hearts of listeners for generations to come. Whether you are revisiting this classic or discovering it for the first time, the emotional depth and timeless beauty of “What Now My Love” are sure to leave a lasting impression.
What now my love?
Now that you left me
How can I live through another day?
Watching my dreams turning to ashes
And my hopes into bits of clay
Once I could see
Once I could feel
Now I am numb
I’ve become unreal
I walk the night
Without a goal
Stripped of my heart and my soul
What now my love?
Now that it’s over
I feel the world closing in on me
Here come the stars
Tumbling around me
There’s the sky
Where the sea should be
What now my love?
Now that you’re gone
I’d be a fool
To go on and on
No one would care
No one would cry
If I should live or die
What now my love?
Now there is nothing
Only my last goodbye
My love