Introduction:
“Who’s Sorry Now,” a signature song for the immensely talented Connie Francis, was a pivotal release in 1958. This enduring classic is the title track of her debut studio album, also released in April 1958 by MGM Records. Belonging firmly to the pop music genre, with strong influences of rock and roll and traditional balladry, “Who’s Sorry Now” marked a significant turning point in Francis’s early career and propelled her to international stardom.
Prior to this release, Connie Francis had recorded several singles that had unfortunately failed to chart, leading to doubts about the renewal of her contract with MGM. It was during what was intended to be her final recording session for the label in October 1957 that she laid down the track for “Who’s Sorry Now,” a cover of a much older song first recorded in 1923. Despite her initial reluctance, this recording, championed by Dick Clark on American Bandstand in January 1958, became her major breakthrough hit.
The achievements of “Who’s Sorry Now” are considerable. The single soared to number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the spring of 1958 and enjoyed an impressive 22 weeks on the chart, the longest run of any of her hits. It became her first of eight singles to be certified gold in the United States, signifying sales of over one million units. Its success wasn’t limited to American shores; in May and June of 1958, “Who’s Sorry Now” spent a remarkable six weeks at number one on the UK Singles Chart, further cementing its status as an international sensation. This song not only revived Connie Francis’s career but also established her as a prominent voice in the popular music landscape of the late 1950s and early 1960s. Its timeless melody and relatable lyrics about regret and heartbreak continue to resonate with audiences today, ensuring its place as a beloved classic.