About the song
Frankie Valli’s “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”: A Pop Anthem for the Ages
Ah, “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” a song that needs little introduction for those of us who’ve lived through the tail end of the swinging sixties and beyond. This infectious pop tune, originally released in 1967, became an instant classic, propelled by the powerhouse vocals of Frankie Valli and the songwriting duo of Bob Gaudio and Bob Crewe.
Now, Frankie Valli’s name was practically synonymous with The Four Seasons at the time. They were already a chart-topping act with hits like “Sherry” and “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” but “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” marked a bit of a departure. It wasn’t quite the doo-wop sound they were known for, but rather a more sophisticated pop number with a driving beat and a touch of orchestral flair.
The song itself is a declaration of infatuation, a man utterly captivated by the object of his affection. Valli’s soaring vocals deliver lines like “You’re just too good to be true” and “I love it when you walk in slow” with a captivating intensity that leaves no doubt about the depth of his feelings. The melody is catchy as can be, and the handclaps and driving piano keep your foot tapping throughout.
“Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” wasn’t just a hit, it was a phenomenon. It reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and became a staple on radio stations across the country. It transcended genre lines, finding fans not just amongst pop enthusiasts but also R&B and even early disco crowds. The song’s popularity continued to grow over the years, fueled by countless covers and its prominent placement in films like “The Deer Hunter” and “10 Things I Hate About You.”
So, there you have it. “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” – a song that captured the energy and optimism of the late sixties and continues to be a timeless classic, a testament to the enduring power of a great pop song.