Introduction:
“Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow,” a groundbreaking and enduring classic, was released in November 1960 as a single by the American girl group The Shirelles. The song later appeared on their 1961 album Tonight’s the Night. Penned by the prolific songwriting duo Carole King and Gerry Goffin, “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow” is a quintessential example of the Brill Building sound and is widely considered a foundational track of the girl group genre, with strong influences from R&B and early pop.
This song holds a significant place in music history for several remarkable achievements. Notably, it became the first song by an all-Black girl group to reach the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. This achievement was a pivotal moment, breaking down racial barriers and paving the way for the countless girl groups that would follow. Beyond its chart-topping success in the US, the single also reached number two on the Billboard R&B chart and achieved significant international recognition, reaching number four in the UK Singles Chart and number three in New Zealand.
“Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow” is lauded for its mature and emotionally resonant lyrics, which delve into the vulnerability and uncertainty that a young woman experiences regarding the longevity of new-found love and physical intimacy. The song bravely addressed these themes with a directness that was relatively uncommon in popular music at the time, particularly for a teenage audience. Goffin’s lyrics, coupled with King’s poignant and memorable melody, created a powerful and relatable narrative that resonated deeply with listeners.
The song’s arrangement, featuring a delicate interplay between the lead vocals of Shirley Owens and the smooth harmonies of the other Shirelles, along with a subtle yet effective string arrangement, contributed significantly to its sophisticated pop craftsmanship. Produced by Luther Dixon, the recording at Bell Sound Studios in New York City captured a timeless quality that continues to captivate audiences decades later.
The enduring legacy of “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow” is further cemented by its numerous accolades. It was ranked at number 126 on Rolling Stone’s list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, and Billboard recognized its monumental impact by naming it number three on their list of the “100 Greatest Girl Group Songs of All Time” in 2017. In 1999, the song’s historical and cultural significance was further acknowledged with its induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame. Its timeless themes and exquisite musicality ensure that “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow” remains a beloved and influential song, continuing to inspire and move listeners across generations.