About the song
“(Where Do I Begin?) Love Story” is a timeless ballad that emerged from the romantic drama film “Love Story” in 1970, composed by Francis Lai with lyrics penned by Carl Sigman. Originally introduced as an instrumental theme in the movie, the song gained widespread recognition after being reworked with lyrics sung by Andy Williams, propelling it to the top of charts and into the hearts of listeners worldwide.
**History**
Francis Lai, renowned for his evocative compositions, crafted the score for “Love Story.” Paramount Pictures, the film’s distributor, sought to enhance the emotional impact of the movie by adding lyrics to the instrumental theme heard during its opening and closing credits. Carl Sigman, a seasoned lyricist, was commissioned to write the words, drawing inspiration from the poignant storyline of the film. Initially, Sigman’s lyrics mirrored the narrative from the perspective of the male protagonist, reflecting on love found and lost. However, Paramount executives, including Robert Evans, deemed the original lyrics too melancholic and requested a revision to ensure broader appeal.
It was during this creative process that Sigman famously uttered the phrase, “Where do I begin?” This simple yet profound question became the cornerstone of the new lyric, capturing the essence of love’s complexities and emotional depth. Andy Williams, renowned for his rich vocal delivery, was chosen to record the revised version of the song. Released in early 1971, Williams’ rendition of “(Where Do I Begin?) Love Story” ascended the charts swiftly, reaching number nine on the Billboard Hot 100 and claiming the top spot on the Easy Listening chart.
**Chart Success**
The song’s success was not limited to the United States; it resonated globally, achieving notable chart positions in various countries. In the UK, Andy Williams’ rendition peaked at number four, solidifying its international appeal and securing its place as a beloved classic in the realm of romantic ballads.
**Legacy**
Beyond its initial acclaim, “(Where Do I Begin?) Love Story” has endured as a quintessential love song, covered by numerous artists across different genres over the decades. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the universal themes of love and loss encapsulated within its lyrics and melody. The song’s ability to evoke heartfelt emotions and nostalgia continues to captivate audiences during the holiday season and beyond, making it a perennial favorite on playlists worldwide.
In summary, “(Where Do I Begin?) Love Story” remains a poignant musical legacy, cherished for its timeless appeal and ability to evoke the bittersweet essence of love’s journey. As it continues to resonate with listeners, new generations discover and embrace its enduring message of love and longing.
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Lyrics
Where do I begin
To tell the story of how great a love can be
The sweet love story that is older than the sea
The simple truth about the love she brings to me
Where do I start
With her first hello
She gave new meaning to this empty world of mine
There’d never be another love, another time
She came into my life and made the living fine
She fills my heart
She fills my heart with very special things
With angels’ songs, with wild imaginings
She fills my soul with so much love
That anywhere I go I’m never lonely
With her around, who could be lonely
I reach for her hand, it’s always there
How long does it last
Can love be measured by the hours in a day
I have no answers now but this much I can say
I know I’ll need her ’til the stars all burn away
And she’ll be there
How long does it last
Can love be measured by the hours in a day
I have no answers now but this much I can say
I know I’ll need her ’til the stars all burn away
And she’ll be there