About the song
Gene Pitney’s “(The Man Who Shot) Liberty Valance” is a memorable tune that captures the spirit of the early 1960s with its dramatic storytelling and evocative melody. Released in 1962, the song was penned by the legendary songwriting duo Burt Bacharach and Hal David, whose collaboration produced numerous hits throughout the decade. Though originally intended for the John Ford-directed film of the same name starring James Stewart and John Wayne, the song was ultimately not used in the movie. Despite this, it became a significant success on its own.
Gene Pitney, known for his distinctive voice and emotive delivery, brought “(The Man Who Shot) Liberty Valance” to life, infusing it with a sense of drama and urgency that resonated with audiences. The song tells the tale of a confrontation between an unnamed hero and the notorious outlaw Liberty Valance, a story that taps into the timeless themes of bravery, justice, and the triumph of good over evil. The narrative quality of the song, combined with Pitney’s powerful performance, made it an instant hit.
Upon its release, “(The Man Who Shot) Liberty Valance” quickly climbed the charts, reaching No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100. This achievement solidified Pitney’s reputation as a leading figure in the pop music scene of the early 1960s. The song’s success was also reflected internationally, as it gained popularity in various countries, further establishing Pitney as a global star.
The song was included in Pitney’s album “Only Love Can Break a Heart,” which showcased his versatility and range as an artist. The album, also released in 1962, featured other notable tracks that contributed to Pitney’s growing fame. The collaboration with Bacharach and David on “(The Man Who Shot) Liberty Valance” was particularly significant, as it highlighted the synergy between Pitney’s vocal talent and the duo’s songwriting prowess.
Throughout his career, Gene Pitney was celebrated for his ability to convey deep emotion and tell compelling stories through his music. “(The Man Who Shot) Liberty Valance” remains one of his most enduring songs, a testament to his skill as a performer and the timeless appeal of its narrative. The song continues to be a favorite among fans of classic pop and remains a shining example of the rich musical landscape of the early 1960s.
Gene Pitney’s legacy as a storyteller and vocalist is beautifully encapsulated in “(The Man Who Shot) Liberty Valance,” a song that continues to captivate listeners with its evocative lyrics and powerful delivery. As we listen to this classic track, we are reminded of the enduring power of music to tell stories that resonate across generations.
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Lyrics
When Liberty Valance rode to town
The womenfolk would hide, they’d hide
When Liberty Valance walked around
The men would step aside
… ‘Cause the point of a gun was the only law
That Liberty understood
When it came to shooting straight and fast
He was mighty good
… From out of the East a stranger came
A law book in his hand, a man
The kind of a man the West would need
To tame a troubled land
… ‘Cause the point of a gun was the only law
That Liberty understood
When it came to shooting straight and fast
He was mighty good
… Many a man would face his gun
And many a man would fall
The man who shot Liberty Valance
He shot Liberty Valance
He was the bravest of them all
… The love of a girl can make a man stay on
When he should go, stay on
Just trying to build a peaceful life
Where love is free to grow
… But the point of a gun was the only law
That Liberty understood
When the final showdown came at last
A law book was no good
… Alone and afraid, she prayed that he’d
Return that fateful night, oh that night
When nothing she said could keep her man
From going out to fight
… From the moment a girl gets to be full grown
The very first thing she learns
When two men go out to face each other
Only one returns
… Everyone heard two shots ring out
One shot made Liberty fall
The man who shot Liberty Valence
He shot Liberty Valance
He was the bravest of them all
… The man who shot Liberty Valance
He shot Liberty Valance
He was the bravest of them all