Bend Me, Shape Me

The American Breed

About Bend Me, Shape Me

"Bend Me, Shape Me" is a song written by Scott English and Larry Weiss. It was first recorded by The Outsiders as a track on their album The Outsiders In in 1966. The best-known version of the song is the 1967 single released by The American Breed that peaked at No. 5 on the US Billboard Hot 100 in early 1968, No. 3 in South Africa, and No. 24 in the UK Singles Chart. The American Breed's 2:05 single mix of this song was sped-up during mastering for release, while the widely available original 2:25 version was done at a normal speed. The following year, The American Breed released their last single, "Anyway That You Want Me", which borrowed its title phrase from this hit. Co-songwriter Scott English later went on to write and sing "Brandy", which Barry Manilow later covered as his 1974 breakout hit "Mandy". 


Year:
1998
65 
#1

Lyrics currently unavailable…


The American Breed

The American Breed was an American rock band that was formed in 1966 and disbanded in 1969, later evolving into Rufus. more »

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12 facts about this song

Genre Classification
"Bend Me, Shape Me" is primarily classified under the genre of sunshine pop and psychedelic pop. These genres were particularly popular during the late 1960s.
Billboard Ranking
This single reached no. 5 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1968, making it The American Breed's highest-charting single.
Performance Success
Despite its peak at number 5 on the American singles chart, "Bend Me, Shape Me" was The American Breed's only Top 10 hit, thus classifying them as a "one-hit wonder".
Album Inclusion
The song is the title track from the band's second album, which was released in 1968.
Line-Up
The American Breed consisted of Gary Loizzo on vocals, Al Ciner on guitar, Charles Colbert on bass, and Lee Graziano on drums. On "Bend Me, Shape Me", they were all actively involved.
Song Origin
The song was originally written by Scott English and Larry Weiss. Before The American Breed made it popular, it was recorded by other bands like The Outsiders and The Models.
International Success
"Bend Me, Shape Me" enjoyed international success, reaching no. 24 in the UK Singles Chart and number 3 on the South African singles chart.
Cover Versions
The song has been covered by multiple artists after its original release, proving its enduring appeal. Notable covers include those by Amen Corner, Gilla, and the 1980s band, Bandolero.
Football Chant Adaptation
In the UK, the song's tune was adapted by football fans into a chant – the words "Bend me, shape me, any way you want me" were changed to "Drink up thy cider, you're a City supporter".
Lasting Popularity
Though The American Breed disbanded in 1970, "Bend Me, Shape Me" continues to be played on oldie-format radio stations to this day.
Use in Media
The song was used in an advertising campaign for Lincoln-Mercury cars in the United States in the late 1960s, proving its broader cultural impact beyond just the music industry.
Reunion Performances
While The American Breed has occasionally reunited for performances, the song "Bend Me, Shape Me" typically remains their most requested and performed song, reflecting its enduring popularity among fans.

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    Bend Me, Shape Me

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    Top Hot 100 Songs 1968

    Billboard #5


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