About the song
Gene Pitney’s “It Hurts to Be in Love,” released in 1964, stands as a testament to his emotive vocal style and the rich era of early 1960s pop music. Known for his distinctive voice and dramatic delivery, Pitney carved out a unique niche in the music world, blending pop, rock, and country influences into a sound that resonated deeply with audiences.
Born in Hartford, Connecticut, in 1940, Gene Pitney first tasted success in the early 1960s with hits like “Town Without Pity” and “The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance.” These songs showcased his ability to convey complex emotions, a trait that would become his hallmark. “It Hurts to Be in Love” continued this tradition, combining heartfelt lyrics with Pitney’s powerful, expressive voice.
Originally written by Howard Greenfield and Helen Miller, “It Hurts to Be in Love” was initially intended for another artist, Neil Sedaka. However, due to a contractual issue, Sedaka’s vocals were replaced by Pitney’s, and the song was released under his name. This track quickly climbed the charts, reaching number 7 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its success further solidified Pitney’s status as a leading figure in the pop music scene of the 1960s.
The song itself is a quintessential example of early ’60s pop, characterized by its lush orchestration and relatable themes of love and heartache. Pitney’s delivery is imbued with a sense of longing and vulnerability, making “It Hurts to Be in Love” a poignant listening experience. The arrangement, featuring upbeat tempos and melodic hooks, contrasts with the song’s melancholic lyrics, creating a dynamic that captivated listeners then and continues to do so today.
“It Hurts to Be in Love” was part of Pitney’s album of the same name, released in 1964. The album was a commercial success, reflecting the era’s penchant for emotionally charged pop ballads. Pitney’s ability to imbue each song with genuine emotion made the album a standout, showcasing his talent for interpreting and conveying the complexities of love and heartache.
For an older and educated audience, the significance of Gene Pitney’s work lies not only in his chart-topping hits but also in his influence on the evolution of pop music. His songs, rich with emotional depth and melodic sophistication, continue to resonate with those who appreciate the artistry of early 1960s pop. “It Hurts to Be in Love” remains a classic, reminding us of the enduring power of music to express the universal experiences of love and pain.
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Lyrics
It hurts to be in love, when the only one you love
Turns out to be someone who’s not in love with you
It hurts to love her so
When deep down inside you know
She will never want you, no matter what you do
And so you cry a little bit (hurts to be in love)
Oh, die a little bit (hurts to be in love)
Day and night, night and day
It hurts to be in love this way
How long can I exist?
Wanting lips I’ve never kissed
She gives all her kisses to somebody else
She thinks I’m just a friend
Though it hurts, I must pretend
The only way to keep her, is to keep it to myself
And so I cry a little bit (hurts to be in love)
Oh, I die a little bit (hurts to be in love)
Day and night, night and day
It hurts to be in love this way
And so I cry a little bit (hurts to be in love)
Oh, I die a little bit (hurts to be in love)
Day and night, night and day
It hurts to be in love this way
It hurts to be in love, day and night, night and day
It hurts to be in love. night and day, day and night
It hurts to be in love, day and night, night and day