Halfway to Paradise

Tony Orlando, Gerry Goffin

About Halfway to Paradise

"Halfway to Paradise" is a popular song written by Carole King and Gerry Goffin, originally recorded in 1961 by Tony Orlando in the United States. It was much more successful in the United Kingdom when it was recorded by Billy Fury. Fury's version reached No.3 on the British Charts in 1961 and stayed on the charts for 23 weeks, becoming the tenth best-selling single of 1961 in the UK in the process. "Halfway to Paradise" became known as Fury's theme tune and was one of his most popular singles. The song also marked the beginning of Fury's burst at the top of the charts that would only begin to slow down on the arrival of fellow Liverpudlian act, the Beatles. Fury's single was a big production for both Fury and Decca and involved a whole orchestra, directed by Ivor Raymonde. Its success made Fury known for his big ballad numbers, although he began in rock and roll and was always thought of more as a rock musician. Bobby Vinton revived "Halfway to Paradise" in a mellow, more romantic version in 1968 (Billboard No. 23). The song was included on the million-selling album "I Love How You Love Me" in early 1969. It was released once again on the 1972 best-selling album Bobby Vinton's All-Time Greatest Hits". 


Year:
2013
2:42

 Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer

I want to be your lover 
But your friend is all I've stayed 
I'm only halfway to paradise 
So near, yet so far away 

I long for your lips to kiss my lips 
But just when I think they may 
You lead me halfway to paradise 
So near, yet so far away, mmm 

Bein' close to you is almost heaven (heaven) 
But seein' you can do just so much 
It hurts me so to know your heart's a treasure (treasure) 
And that my heart is forbidden to touch, so 

Put your sweet lips close to my lips 
And tell me that's where they're gonna stay 
Don't lead me halfway to paradise 
Mmm, so near, yet so far away 

Oh, uh, oh so near, yet so far away 
Yeah, yeah so near, yet so far away 

 Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer


Tony Orlando

Michael Anthony Orlando Cassavitis (born April 3, 1944), better known as Tony Orlando, is an American show business professional, best known as the lead singer of the group Tony Orlando and Dawn in the early 1970s. more »

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Written by: CAROLE KING, GERRY GOFFIN

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


9 facts about this song

Creation and Original Release
"Halfway to Paradise" is a popular song that was originally written by Gerry Goffin and Carole King. It was first released in 1961.
Billy Fury
British rock 'n roll star Billy Fury released a version of "Halfway to Paradise" as a single in the same year 1961. This version was the most successful, reaching number 3 on the UK Singles Chart.
Bobby Vinton
American pop singer, Bobby Vinton also covered the song. His version, released in 1968, was a minor hit in North America, peaking at number 23 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Tony Orlando
Tony Orlando, best known for his work with the group "Tony Orlando and Dawn", produced a version of "Halfway to Paradise" as well. However, it didn't achieve the same level of chart success as those by Fury and Vinton.
Nick Lowe
Nick Lowe, a British singer-songwriter, musician and producer, recorded a version of "Halfway to Paradise" included in his 2001 album "The Convincer". This version is known for its distinct, stripped-down popular music style.
The Song's Recognition
"Halfway to Paradise" became so synonymous with Billy Fury that a biographical stage show about his life was named after the song. The show tours around the UK, presenting Fury's life and music career.
Influence on Other Musicians
"Halfway to Paradise" has been covered by many other artists beside those mentioned, demonstrating its lasting impact and widespread appeal in popular music. It's been a source of inspiration for a substantial number of musicians in different genres.
Song's Lyrics
The lyrics to "Halfway to Paradise" talk about unrequited love, a common theme in popular songs at the time. This raw emotional content might be one of the reasons why the song has connected with so many listeners and artists over the years.
Persistent Popularity
Almost six decades after its first release, "Halfway to Paradise" continues to be played on radio stations, demonstrating its enduring popularity. It's a testament to the timeless appeal of the songwriting duo Goffin and King, and to the performances of artists like Fury, Vinton, and others who breathed life into the song.

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    Halfway to Paradise

    30,591
    302     16

    Top Hot 100 Songs 1961

    Billboard #39


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