Introduction:
Emerging from the smooth, sophisticated sounds of the 1950s and 1960s, singer Andy Williams found himself at a crossroads in the ever-evolving musical landscape of the early 1970s. While Pop and Rock dominated the charts, Williams, known for his velvety baritone and easy listening style, sought to retain his core audience while incorporating contemporary elements. This pursuit resulted in his iconic rendition of the theme song for the film Love Story (1970), titled “(Where Do I Begin) Love Story”.
Composed by Francis Lai, a French film composer known for his evocative scores, the instrumental version of the song served as the emotional core of the film, a love story between a wealthy Harvard student and a working-class music student. However, Paramount Pictures, the film’s distributor, initially rejected the instrumental theme, requesting a song with lyrics. This led to Carl Sigman, an established lyricist with a string of hits to his name, crafting the now-famous verses that perfectly captured the film’s central romance.
Released in 1971, Williams’ version of “(Where Do I Begin) Love Story” became an instant classic. His smooth vocals, accompanied by a gentle orchestral arrangement, breathed life into Sigman’s poignant lyrics. Lines like “Where do I begin to tell the story of how great a love can be” and “She fills my heart with very special things, with angel’s songs, with wild imaginings” resonated with audiences, perfectly encapsulating the film’s themes of star-crossed lovers and enduring devotion.
The song’s success was undeniable. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, staying there for two weeks. It also topped charts in Canada and the United Kingdom, solidifying its international appeal. “(Where Do I Begin) Love Story” earned Williams a Grammy Award nomination for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance and became one of his signature tunes. The song transcended the film, becoming a timeless ballad for weddings, anniversaries, and any occasion that celebrates love’s enduring power.
Despite its association with the film Love Story, “(Where Do I Begin) Love Story” stands on its own merit. Williams’ masterful delivery, coupled with Sigman’s heartfelt lyrics and Lai’s evocative melody, created a song that continues to resonate with listeners across generations. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to capture the universal language of love, making it a cherished piece of musical history.
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Lyrics:
Where do I beginTo tell the story of how great a love can beThe sweet love story that is older than the seaThe simple truth about the love she brings to meWhere do I start
With her first helloShe gave new meaning to this empty world of mineThere’d never be another love, another timeShe came into my life and made the living fineShe fills my heart
She fills my heart with very special thingsWith angels’ songs, with wild imaginingsShe fills my soul with so much loveThat anywhere I go I’m never lonelyWith her around, who could be lonelyI reach for her hand, it’s always there
How long does it lastCan love be measured by the hours in a dayI have no answers now but this much I can sayI know I’ll need her ’til the stars all burn awayAnd she’ll be there
How long does it lastCan love be measured by the hours in a dayI have no answers now but this much I can sayI know I’ll need her ’til the stars all burn awayAnd she’ll be there