Soul And Inspiration – The Righteous Brothers

About the Song

The Righteous Brothers, the iconic duo known for their soaring vocals and dramatic ballads, entered a new chapter in 1966 with the release of “Soul and Inspiration.” This song marked their first major hit after parting ways with legendary producer Phil Spector, leaving many to wonder if they could recapture the magic of their previous successes.
“Soul and Inspiration” proved any doubters wrong. The song, written by the same team that penned their earlier hit “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’,” Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, retained the essence of The Righteous Brothers’ sound while showcasing a subtle evolution. The powerful vocals of Bill Medley remain the centerpiece, but there’s a newfound smoothness and soulful urgency that reflects the changing musical landscape of the mid-1960s.

The song opens with a driving drumbeat and a gospel-tinged piano, setting the stage for Medley’s impassioned delivery. The lyrics are a declaration of devotion, the singer proclaiming his love to be his “soul and inspiration.” The call-and-response harmonies with partner Bobby Hatfield add depth and texture, creating a tapestry of sound that is both powerful and emotive.
“Soul and Inspiration” wasn’t just a musical achievement; it was a testament to The Righteous Brothers’ resilience. Despite the shift away from Spector’s signature “Wall of Sound” production style, the song captured the essence of their vocal prowess and emotional storytelling. It proved that their talent could shine through regardless of the production setting.

The song’s success was undeniable. “Soul and Inspiration” reached number one on the Billboard charts, solidifying The Righteous Brothers’ status as musical powerhouses. It became a staple on radio stations and a favorite at live performances, showcasing their ability to captivate audiences with both new and familiar sounds.
“Soul and Inspiration” remains a cornerstone of The Righteous Brothers’ legacy. It’s a song that bridges eras, reflecting the evolution of their sound while staying true to their core strengths. It’s a testament to the enduring power of their voices and their ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level.

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Lyrics: Soul And Inspiration

Girl, I can’t let you do this
Let you walk away
Girl, how can I live through this?
When you’re all I wake up for each day babyYou’re my soul and my heart’s inspiration
You’re all I got to get me by
You’re my soul and my heart’s inspiration
Without you baby what good am I?I never had much going
But at least I had you
How can you walk out knowing
I ain’t got nothing left if you do, babyYou’re my soul and my heart’s inspiration
You’re all I got to get me by
You’re my soul and my heart’s inspiration
Without you baby what good am I?
Oh, what good am I?Baby, I can’t make it without you
And I’m, I’m telling you honey
You’re my reason for laughing, for crying
For living and for dying
Baby, I can’t make it without you
Please, I’m begging you baby
If you go it will kill me, I swear it
Girl, I just can’t bear it
You’re my soul and my heart’s inspiration
You’re all I got to get me by
You’re my soul and my heart’s inspiration
Without you baby what good am I?
What good am I?

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