The Burt Bacharach Discussion Forum

Rio wrote:US (I didn't know this recordiong)


IF YOU CAN LEARN HOW TO CRY

Thanks, Rio, for posting these 2 songs (which I did not know). I cannot believe how AWESOME "If You Can Learn How To Cry" is! How did that song never go to #1??? It's mind boggling that such a phenomenal song remains unknown to the world. I can only imagine that, when Burt was finished recording that song, he had to have felt that it was going to be at least a top-ten monster hit song. Imagine his dismay when it basically got nowhere... at least I'm assuming that since I'm not familiar with it.

I did happen to notice that Burt did something in this song that he rarely did. He had the song modulate; that is, it changed keys. I can't think of any Burt song (but for one) where he modulated. And that one song that did modulate (a lot) was "All Kinds Of People". I love that song, too! But I think it kept modulating because it's very short. In fact, I think it's Burt's shortest song. Either way, I think it's a real shame that "If You Can Learn How To Cry" remains an unknown song to the world.

I agree that Stephanie Mills should have had a greater career as a pop singer. My guess is that "If You Can Learn How To Cry" was not pushed and publicized enough by whatever record label Stephanie Mills was on. I'm sure that if Dionne or Diana Ross had been given the song when there were selling records, the song would have gone to number 1. I think the song is just that good!

Thanks bluonblue and Enormous for the feedback, and Roberto for the video of Burt singing.

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The Look of Love: tough to kill.



Just thought this next one could please some of you. I was glad that it ocurred to me to look for it:
What Does it Take to Win Your Love - Jr Walker & the All Stars


(There's a TV program recording with Jr. Walker and this same version on "Related videos.")

My Goodness, this lady can sing..........an absolute knock-out !!!


"blue"

Great:



bye
Roberto

Here's a version of "This Empty Place" that I just came across on youtube. I never heard this version (by Stephanie Mills) until just now. I really like it! Hope you do too!

Two absolute "Geniuses" ...........incredible performance from Stevie !!!!!!!


Enjoy,
"blue"

..........simply sublime !!!!!


"blue"

Words fail...............


"blue"

Here's a little trip down memory lane, and not a bad performance:



-Dennis

Burt in Milan!!!

http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=Suz ... iew=videos

Amazing "chemistry" between these two beautiful people !!!


"blue"
PS
Dusty.......we miss you.

Bonjour Blue;

Thank you very much for that wonderful segment of Burt & Dusty!

P.S. Hey, we need to see the whole show!

Take care mon ami.

Vincenr

Bonjour Vincent,
Yes, I agree with you !............the "Bacharach Specials" are priceless !!!
Dusty also performed an astounding version of "Knowing When to Leave" on the
same show.......WOW !!!!!!!

Take care mon ami,
"blue"

I'm not sure if you saw this



and the related videos, which in turn will lead to other recent concerts in Europe.

Here are Dusty Springfield and Marth Reeves (of "Martha and the Vandellas") singing Burt and Hal's "Wishin' and Hopin'", live from London in 1965!