Introduction:
Though not his biggest hit, Cat Stevens’ “Here Comes My Baby” (1967) holds a unique place in the singer-songwriter’s early career. Released on his album Matthew & Son, the track showcases a young Stevens experimenting with his sound, blending introspective lyrics with a catchy pop melody. While the song itself achieved moderate success, it became a springboard for Stevens’ songwriting talents and launched the careers of another British band, The Tremeloes.
Composed by Stevens himself, “Here Comes My Baby” reflects the burgeoning pop-rock style of the mid-1960s. Upbeat instrumentation, likely featuring keyboards and a driving rhythm section, lays the foundation for Stevens’ distinctive vocals. The lyrics, while remaining unconfirmed, are believed to paint a picture of longing and anticipation. The imagery of a lonely walk bathed in moonlight is juxtaposed with the joyous arrival of the singer’s beloved. This bittersweet sentiment adds depth to the song, giving it a more nuanced feel than typical pop fare of the era.
Despite its potential, “Here Comes My Baby” wasn’t initially intended as a single for Stevens. Produced by Mike Hurst, who had previously worked with Gerry and the Pacemakers, the song was part of a larger collection showcasing Stevens’ evolving songwriting. However, fate intervened when the British beat group The Tremeloes heard the track. Fresh off the departure of their lead singer, Brian Poole, The Tremeloes were searching for new material to reinvigorate their sound. Recognizing the potential of “Here Comes My Baby,” they approached Stevens for permission to record their own version.
The Tremeloes’ rendition, released in January 1967, differed slightly from Stevens’ original. The opening line was changed to create a more upbeat tone, and the final verse was omitted. This, along with a more energetic arrangement, propelled the song to international success. The Tremeloes’ version of “Here Comes My Baby” cracked the top ten charts in both the UK and the US, becoming their first major hit after Poole’s departure.
While Stevens’ original version never achieved the same level of commercial success, the song’s impact on his career is undeniable. The royalties generated by The Tremeloes’ hit provided a financial boost to the young artist, allowing him to focus on songwriting and recording. More importantly, “Here Comes My Baby” established Stevens as a talented songwriter capable of crafting catchy melodies with universal themes. The song paved the way for his later hits like “Matthew and Son” and “The First Cut is the Deepest,” solidifying his place as a prominent figure in the British pop scene.
In conclusion, Cat Stevens’ “Here Comes My Baby” stands as a fascinating example of a song that found success through an unexpected turn of events. While not a chart-topper for Stevens himself, the track’s influence on The Tremeloes and its contribution to Stevens’ songwriting career make it a significant piece in the artist’s early development. The song serves as a reminder of the collaborative nature of the music industry and the power of a well-crafted pop melody to resonate with audiences worldwide.