Introduction:
“Because” is a timeless ballad recorded by the influential English rock band The Dave Clark Five. The song was primarily released as a single in the United States in August 1964, though it initially appeared in the UK in May 1964 as the B-side to “Can’t You See That She’s Mine.” It is featured on their third studio album, American Tour, released in 1964, an album specifically curated for the booming American market during the height of the British Invasion.
Musically, “Because” is a prime example of pop rock, characterized by its melodic structure, lush harmonies, and a more subdued, romantic tone compared to the band’s more energetic, “Tottenham Sound” hits like “Glad All Over.” While The Dave Clark Five were known for their driving, percussive sound, “Because” showcased a different facet of their musicality, highlighting Mike Smith’s soulful vocals and the band’s capacity for crafting tender, emotive songs. Richie Unterberger of AllMusic praised the song for its “beautiful, unusual, and irresistible chord changes” and “tender, romantic lyrics,” noting its melodic strength.
“Because” proved to be a significant achievement for The Dave Clark Five, particularly in North America. It became one of their most successful singles, reaching number 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. This was a remarkable feat, solidifying their position as major players in the British Invasion alongside bands like The Beatles. The song also achieved similar success in Canada and New Zealand, peaking at number 3 on both the Canadian Singles Chart and the New Zealand (Lever) chart. Its strong performance demonstrated the band’s versatility and appeal beyond their signature upbeat sound, allowing them to connect with a wider audience. The enduring popularity of “Because” is a testament to its melodic charm and lyrical sincerity, cementing its place as a classic of the mid-1960s pop rock era.