“Unchained Melody,” as performed by The Righteous Brothers in 1965, is arguably the definitive version of a song that has become a timeless classic. Originally written by Alex North and Hy Zaret in 1955 for the prison film “Unchained,” it was the Righteous Brothers’ powerful rendition that catapulted the song to legendary status.
The Righteous Brothers, comprised of Bill Medley and Bobby Hatfield, were pioneers of the “blue-eyed soul” genre. Their signature sound was characterized by Medley’s deep baritone and Hatfield’s soaring tenor, a combination that created a uniquely emotional and dramatic vocal dynamic. It’s Hatfield’s unforgettable tenor that takes center stage in “Unchained Melody,” delivering a performance overflowing with raw passion.
The song itself is a plea for love and connection. The lyrics express a deep longing for an absent lover, yearning for their touch and embrace. The simple yet profound words, combined with the soaring melody, create a universal message of love, loss, and the ache of separation that resonates deeply with listeners.
While the song initially reached number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 1 in the UK, its popularity saw a massive resurgence in 1990 when it was featured prominently in the film “Ghost.” This led to a second wave of chart success, reaching number 1 in several countries. The song also received a nomination for Best original Song in the 1956 Academy Awards for its appeareance in “Unchained”.
The audience’s feedback has consistently been one of overwhelming emotion. “Unchained Melody” is often cited as one of the greatest love songs of all time, and it’s frequently used in weddings, films, and television to convey intense feelings of love and longing. It’s a testament to the song’s power that, decades after its release, it continues to evoke such a strong and visceral reaction in listeners, cementing its place as a true masterpiece.