Will You (Still) Love Me Tomorrow, The Shirelles, 1960
The first line of this song could very well be the best opening line of a song ever. It's not just about the words being perfect, the cadence is perfect ... the tone is absolute perfection. "Tonight you're mine, ... completely." That slight hesitation before completely is everything. Effortless. Pure artistry. I melt. Shirley Owens' voice, starting a little low and low and full like that and leaning so hard into the word "completely" slays me time and time again.
How is it possible for a voice -- and for words -- to convey strength and vulnerability at the same time? You know? Carole King is how. Masterful. Simply one of the most sincere and profound lyricists to ever live. Her voice, her perspective -- another point of view -- the subtle and subconscious value of pop music.
Amy Winehouse's cover is so good, too, y'all.
Happy Saturday!
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