Introduction:
Released in 1967, Never My Love is a pop standard that cemented the place of American rock band The Association among the top music acts of the late 1960s. The song, written by brothers Donald and Richard Addrisi, became a massive commercial success, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and topping the Cashbox charts in October 1967. It was one of The Association’s five top-ten hits during their late-1960s peak. While not originally members of the band, the Addrisi brothers would go on to write a string of hits for The Association, including Never My Love.
Never My Love is a ballad with a distinct pop-rock flair, characteristic of The Association’s sound. The song features layered vocals, a lush melody, and subtle baroque pop influences. The recording also benefited from the talents of The Wrecking Crew, a group of prominent Los Angeles session musicians who played on numerous hits during the era. Although not credited as producers, The Wrecking Crew’s contributions helped shape the polished sound of Never My Love.
The song’s origins lie in a personal experience encountered by co-writer Donald Addrisi. According to some accounts, the inspiration for the title came from a post-marriage proposal conversation between Addrisi and his then-girlfriend. The resulting song explores themes of lost love and lingering emotions, a subject that resonated with many listeners in 1967.
Never My Love’s enduring legacy is a testament to its catchy melody, sophisticated arrangement, and universal themes. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, a sign of its lasting influence across various musical genres. Today, Never My Love remains a popular choice for playlists and classic rock radio, solidifying its place as a pop staple of the 1960s.
Video:
Lyrics:
You ask me if there’ll come a timeWhen I grow tired of you
Never my loveNever my love
You wonder if this heart of mineWill lose its desire for you
Never my loveNever my love
What makes you think love will endWhen you know that my whole life depends on you? (On you)
Never my loveNever my love
You say you fear I’ll change my mindAnd I won’t require you
Never my love (never my love)Never my love (never my love)
How can you think love will endWhen I’ve asked you to spend your whole life with me? (With me, with me)
Never my love (never my love)Never my love (never my, my love)
Never my love (never my love)Never my love (never my, my love)