About the song
“My Love,” a 1965 single by Petula Clark, stands as one of the defining hits of the mid-1960s and a testament to the effective collaboration between Clark and her frequent partner, songwriter and producer Tony Hatch. The song’s origins trace back to a serendipitous moment during a flight from London to Los Angeles. Hatch, who was in the process of finalizing his composition “The Life and Soul of the Party,” found himself in a conversation with an American passenger. The exchange led Hatch to realize that the song’s title might not resonate with the American audience. This prompted him to craft a new song, “My Love,” whose title and lyrics would be universally accessible.
Hatch quickly penned the lyrics during the flight and completed the music upon arrival in Los Angeles. “My Love” was recorded at the renowned Western Studios, with backing provided by the influential Wrecking Crew—a group known for their contributions to numerous classic tracks of the era. Despite the high caliber of the studio musicians, Clark initially had reservations about the song. She felt it lacked the distinctiveness of previous hits and described it as somewhat ordinary compared to the innovative work she had become accustomed to.
In an interesting twist, Clark actively tried to dissuade Warner Bros. A&R man Joe Smith from releasing “My Love” as a single. Despite her strong objections and physical persuasion—Clark vividly recalls grabbing Smith by his lapels—Smith remained steadfast in his belief that the song would be a success. His confidence proved well-founded, as “My Love” went on to become an international hit, reaching number one on the U.S. charts in early 1966.
Clark’s initial doubts about the song’s potential were unfounded, as “My Love” continued to captivate audiences worldwide, further solidifying her status as a major pop icon of the era. The track’s success demonstrated the power of Hatch’s songwriting and production, as well as the ability of the music industry professionals to recognize and champion a hit despite initial uncertainties.
The song’s smooth melody, heartfelt lyrics, and the sophisticated production values contributed to its enduring appeal, making it a staple of Clark’s musical legacy. “My Love” remains a quintessential example of 1960s pop, embodying the melodic charm and emotional resonance that characterized much of Clark’s work during this vibrant period in music history.
Video
Lyrics
My love is warmer than the warmest sunshine
Softer than a sigh
My love is deeper than the deepest ocean
Wider than the sky
My love is brighter than the brightest star
That shines every night above
And there is nothing in this world
That can ever change my loveSomething happened to my heart the day that I met you
Something that I never felt before
You are always on my mind no matter what I do
And everyday it seems that I want you moreMy love is warmer than the warmest sunshine
Softer than a sigh
My love is deeper than the deepest ocean
Wider than the sky
My love is brighter than the brightest star
That shines every night above
And there is nothing in this world
That can ever change my love
Once I thought that love was meant for anyone else but me
Once I thought you’d never come my way
Now it only goes to show how wrong we all can be
For now I have to tell you every dayMy love is warmer than the warmest sunshine
Softer than a sigh
My love is deeper than the deepest ocean
Wider than the sky
My love is brighter than the brightest star
That shines every night above
And there is nothing in this world
That can ever change my love
My love is warmer than the warmest sunshine
Softer than a sigh
My love is deeper than the deepest ocean
Wider than the sky
My love is brighter than the brightest star
That shines every night above
And there is nothing in this world
That can ever change my love