Introduction:
Engelbert Humperdinck’s 1968 recording of Les Bicyclettes De Belsize is a delightful pop song that captured the hearts of listeners around the world. Though the song itself may seem like a straightforward pop tune, it has a fascinating backstory that intertwines with a charming short film of the same name.
Released in 1968, Les Bicyclettes De Belsize became a signature song for Engelbert Humperdinck, a rising star in the world of popular music. Humperdinck, known for his powerful vocals and romantic ballads, delivered Les Bicyclettes De Belsize with a touch of playful charm, making it a departure from his usual repertoire. The song’s producer, Geoff Morrow, is credited with helping to shape Humperdinck’s sound and establishing him as a major international artist.
However, the origins of Les Bicyclettes De Belsize lie not in a recording studio but on a London street. The song was the title track for a 1968 British musical short film of the same name. Directed by Douglas Hickox, the film tells a whimsical story of a young man who falls for a fashion model after seeing her picture on a billboard. He embarks on a bicycle ride through the streets of London, encountering various characters along the way, all soundtracked by the film’s score. The title song, written by Les Reed and Barry Mason, is a bright and cheerful melody that perfectly captures the film’s lighthearted mood.
Interestingly, the film version of Les Bicyclettes De Belsize features a different vocalist than Engelbert Humperdinck. The song is sung by actor Anthony May, who plays the lead role in the film. However, Humperdinck’s version, released shortly after the film, became the more popular rendition. His recording climbed the charts in the UK, reaching the top 10, and became a Top 40 hit in the United States. Les Bicyclettes De Belsize helped to solidify Humperdinck’s international fame and remains one of his most recognizable songs.
The success of Les Bicyclettes De Belsize transcended the pop charts. The song’s association with the charming short film added a layer of visual storytelling to the music. Les Bicyclettes De Belsize became a nostalgic reminder of a bygone era, a time of youthful innocence and carefree exploration. The song continues to be enjoyed by audiences of all ages, a testament to its enduring appeal.
Video:
Lyrics:
Turning and turning
The world goes on
We can’t change it, my friend
Let us go riding now through the days
Together to the end
To the end
Les bicyclettes de Belsize
Carry us side by side
And hand in hand we will ride
Over Belsize
Turn your magical eyes
Round and around
Looking at all we’ve found
Carry us through the skies
Les bicyclettes de Belsize
Spinning and spinning
The dreams I know
Rolling on through my head
Let us enjoy them before they go
Come the dawn, they all are dead
Yes, they’re dead
Les bicyclettes de Belsize
Carry us side by side
And hand in hand we will ride
Over Belsize
Turn your magical eyes
Round and around
Lookin’ at all we’ve found
Carry us through the skies
Les bicyclettes de Belsize