“Release Me (And Let Me Love Again)” is a classic ballad that catapulted Engelbert Humperdinck to international stardom in 1967. Humperdinck, born Arnold George Dorsey in India, was a relatively unknown crooner before this song’s explosive success. His deep, resonant voice and charming stage presence, combined with a carefully crafted image, made him an instant sensation, particularly appealing to female audiences. While he had been performing under various names for years, it was with “Release Me” that he truly found his footing and solidified his identity.
The song itself, originally written by Eddie Miller, W.S. Stevenson, and Robert Yount in 1949, tells a poignant story of heartbreak and the bittersweet acceptance of a lover moving on. It’s a plea for freedom, a desperate request for the partner to “release” the singer from a relationship that’s clearly over so they can find happiness with someone else. The simplicity of the lyrics, coupled with Humperdinck’s emotive delivery, resonated deeply with listeners worldwide.
“Release Me” became a monumental hit, famously knocking The Beatles’ “Penny Lane” off the top of the UK charts and staying at number one for six weeks. It reached number four on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and enjoyed considerable success across Europe and Australia. The song’s popularity was so enduring that it helped revive the popularity of ballads and established Humperdinck as a leading figure in the easy listening genre.
Audiences were captivated by the raw emotion Humperdinck conveyed, with many relating to the universal themes of love, loss, and letting go. Letters flooded in, praising the singer’s vulnerability and the song’s ability to capture the pain of a broken heart. “Release Me” remains Humperdinck’s signature song, a testament to its enduring power and his unforgettable performance. It continues to be a beloved classic, frequently featured in films, television shows, and karaoke nights, cementing its place in popular culture.