Be Anything (But Be Mine)

Lou Rawls

About Be Anything (But Be Mine)

"Be Anything (but Be Mine)" is a popular song composed by Irving Gordon and was published in 1952. The song marked the debut release of Peggy Lee on Decca Records being recorded April 3, 1952 and issued as Decca (catalog number) #8142: however the most successful version of the song was that by Eddy Howard was released as Mercury #5815) which reached #13 in the spring of 1952 besting the #21 chart peak of Lee's version, and also the #26 and #30 peaks of rival versions by Champ Butler (Columbia 39690) and Helen O'Connell (Capitol 2011) (#30). Also Mercury Records cut a version for the R&B market with Wini Brown & her Boyfriends; released as Mercury 8270 the track reportedly featured the Ravens as the male chorale. Ruth Brown also recorded "Be Anything (but be Mine)" as Atlantic #2015 but her version was relegated to the B-side of the track "5-10-15 Hours". Gloria Lynne recorded "Be Anything (but Be Mine)" early in 1964 as her debut release on Mercury Records' Fontana label as Fontana #1890. The track entered the Hot 100 in April 1964 but rose no higher than #88, its hit potential stymied by a lawsuit which barred the sales of any Fontana releases by Lynne, the singer's prior label Everest Records contending to still have Lynne contractually obligated. Fontana was prevented from releasing product by Lynne until February 1965, when her version of "Be Anything (but Be Mine)" made its album debut on her album Intimate Moments."Be Anything (but Be Mine)" did again become a major hit in 1964 via a remake by Connie Francis recorded in an April 8, 1964 session in New York City produced by Danny Davis with Alan Lorber as arranger/conductor. With "Be Anything (but Be Mine)", Francis returned to the mode of remaking traditional pop songs which had provided her with most of her early Top Ten hits, although in the 1960s she had abandoned that formula, with the exception of "Together", a #8 hit in 1961. "Be Anything (but Be Mine)" did not return Francis to the Top Ten, but did maintain her recent profile as a moderate chart presence with a #25 peak on Billboard Hot 100, where it would mark Francis' final appearance in the Top 40.1 On the Easy Listening chart, which is now the Adult Contemporary chart, it peaked at a respectable #9. In Australia Francis' "Be Anything (but Be Mine)" charted at #48. more »

Year:: 1981
: 147 Views
Playlists:: #2

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Lou Rawls

Louis Allen "Lou" Rawls (December 1, 1933 – January 6, 2006) was an American recording artist, voice actor, songwriter, and record producer. He was known for his smooth vocal style: Frank Sinatra once said that Rawls had "the classiest singing and silkiest chops in the singing game". Rawls released more than 60 albums, sold more than 40 million records,[citation needed] appeared as an actor in motion pictures and on television, and voiced-over many cartoons. He was also known for his frequently used expression, "Yeah, buddy!" Rawls was also a three-time Grammy-winner, all for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance. more »

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9 facts about this song

Historical Background "Be Anything (But Be Mine)" is a popular song which has been covered by multiple artists including Connie Francis and Lou Rawls. It was written by Irving Gordon and published in 1952.
Connie Francis' Version Francis, known as one of the best-selling female artists of the '60s, added her touch to the song. Her versions often often feature her prominent, distinct voice and her rendition of "Be Anything (But Be Mine)" is no exception. - Francis was known for her interpretations of pop ballads and love songs, making "Be Anything (But Be Mine)" a perfect fit for her discography. - Although it's not one of Francis' most well-remembered hits, it showcases her vocal talent and passion for the music.
Lou Rawls' Version Rawls, a Grammy-winning soul, jazz, and blues singer, also recorded a version of "Be Anything (But Be Mine)". His deeply emotive and resonant voice added a new dimension to the song. - This version demonstrates Rawls' musical versatility, as he's mostly associated with R&B and soul genres, but his interpretation of "Be Anything (But Be Mine)" showed his ability to handle pop standards with equal finesse. - Rawls' unique style and vocal prowess made his rendition of the song a favorite among jazz and blues enthusiasts.
Original Performance The song was originally performed by Ethel Ennis and later by Helen Forrest in the early 1950s. Both performances had a big band accompaniment, a popular style of the time.
Cultural Impact Though not as widely known as some other pop standards, "Be Anything (But Be Mine)" has been recorded by several notable artists, demonstrating its enduring appeal and influence. Other artists include Nat King Cole, Peggy Lee, and Bing Crosby among others.
Song's Theme The song's lyrics focus on a deep yearning for a loved one's affection, a common theme in many of Gordon's compositions. It strikes a chord with listeners due to its heartfelt expressiveness.
Songwriter Fame The song was written by Irving Gordon, a prolific American songwriter known for creating popular hits such as "Unforgettable" made famous by Nat King Cole. "Be Anything (But Be Mine)" is one of his many contributions to the American songbook.
Music Genre The song is considered a pop standard and has been adapted into various styles including pop ballads, jazz, and soul renditions.
Released Decades Connie Francis' version of the song was released in the 1960s, while Lou Rawls' version came out in the 1970s, demonstrating the song's lasting popularity over decades.

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"Be Anything (But Be Mine) Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 26 Apr. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/347389/Lou+Rawls/Be+Anything+%28But+Be+Mine%29>.

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