Introduction:
The year is 1967. The Summer of Love is in full swing, and a new sound washes over the airwaves: sunshine pop. Characterized by its bright melodies, luscious harmonies, and carefree lyrics, this genre perfectly encapsulates the optimistic spirit of the psychedelic era. Amidst this backdrop emerges a song that would become a timeless classic: Never My Love by the Californian rock band The Association.
Released in that same year, Never My Love wasn’t originally intended for The Association. Songwriters Don and Dick Addrisi, known professionally as the Addrisi Brothers, initially wrote it for themselves. However, their version failed to gain traction. Recognizing the song’s potential, they presented it to The Association, who immediately recognized its brilliance.
The Association, known for their signature vocal blend, were fronted by Terry Kirkman and Larry Ramos at the time. Never My Love proved to be the perfect vehicle for their talents. The song opens with a melancholic piano melody, quickly joined by Kirkman’s breathy vocals. A distinctive four-note bass riff threads through the verses, providing a sense of groundedness to the ethereal harmonies that soar throughout the track. The song’s emotional core is laid bare in the chorus, where Kirkman and Ramos’ vocals intertwine in a poignant plea: “Never my love, if I can’t have you.”
The production of Never My Love was overseen by Curt Becher, who partnered with The Association on several of their hits. Becher’s touch is evident in the song’s meticulous arrangement. Layered with lush orchestration and subtle instrumental flourishes, the production creates a soundscape that is both airy and sophisticated. The song also benefits from the talents of renowned session musicians, collectively known as The Wrecking Crew. These studio veterans, who played on countless hits throughout the 1960s, elevate Never My Love with their impeccable musicianship.
Never My Love was an instant success. It reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, solidifying The Association’s place as one of the leading pop groups of the era. The song’s influence transcended genres and generations. It has been covered by numerous artists, including the Swedish rock band Blue Swede, whose version reached number seven on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1974.
Never My Love endures not just for its chart success, but for its enduring emotional resonance. The song’s bittersweet melody and introspective lyrics capture the complexities of love and loss, a sentiment that continues to resonate with listeners today. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of sunshine pop and The Association’s artistry.
Video:
Lyrics:
You ask me if there’ll come a timeWhen I grow tired of you
Never my loveNever my love
You wonder if this heart of mineWill lose its desire for you
Never my loveNever my love
What makes you think love will endWhen you know that my whole life depends on you? (On you)
Never my loveNever my love
You say you fear I’ll change my mindAnd I won’t require you
Never my love (never my love)Never my love (never my love)
How can you think love will endWhen I’ve asked you to spend your whole life with me? (With me, with me)
Never my love (never my love)Never my love (never my, my love)
Never my love (never my love)Never my love (never my, my love)