About the song
Righteous Brothers — Unchained Melody (Live, 1965) (Picture and Sound Restored) is a timeless classic that resonates with listeners across generations. Performed by the American vocal duo Righteous Brothers, composed of Bill Medley and Bobby Hatfield, this version features the soulful voice of Bobby Hatfield in a live rendition that heightens the emotional depth of the song. Known for its hauntingly beautiful melody and iconic lyrics, "Unchained Melody" has secured its place as one of the most enduring love ballads of the 20th century.
The original version of "Unchained Melody" was written by Alex North and Hy Zaret in 1955 for the film Unchained, but the Righteous Brothers recorded their now-famous version in 1965. Though it was initially released as a B-side to "Hung On You," "Unchained Melody" quickly overshadowed the A-side and surged in popularity. This heartfelt rendition reached #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1965 and cemented itself as a central piece of pop culture. Over the decades, its popularity continued to skyrocket, notably resurging in the 1990s when it was featured in the iconic pottery scene of the movie Ghost (1990).
Despite its commercial success, "Unchained Melody" did not receive direct Grammy recognition in 1965; however, the Righteous Brothers were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003, a testament to their lasting influence in music history. Among countless accolades, this enchanting song has been celebrated as one of the greatest love songs of all time and ranked #365 on Rolling Stone’s list of "The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time."
This live version of "Unchained Melody" from 1965, with its restored picture and sound, offers a mesmerizing look at the raw talent and profound emotion displayed by the Righteous Brothers. It remains a moving testament to the power of music to touch hearts across generations.
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