If I Didn't Care

The Ink Spots

About If I Didn't Care

"If I Didn't Care" is a song written by Jack Lawrence that was originally sung and recorded by the Ink Spots featuring Bill Kenny in 1939. The Ink Spots recording became the 10th best selling single of all time with over 19 million copies sold making it one of the fewer than forty all-time singles to have sold 10 million (or more) physical copies worldwide. According to Lawrence, he mailed the song before showing it to some of his friends. His friends' reaction to the song was almost unanimously negative, but he remained positive on it and later it became one of his biggest successes. It was added to the Grammy Hall of Fame and was number 271 on the "Songs of the Century" list. In 2018, the Ink Spots' recording of the song was selected for preservation in the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress as being "culturally, historically, or artistically significant." The song was featured in the 2013 documentary film "50 Children: The Rescue Mission Of Mr. And Mrs. Klaus". 


Year:
1998
3:04
46 
#1

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If I didn't care more than words can say
If I didn't care, would I feel this way?
If this isn't love then why do I thrill?
And what makes my head go 'round and 'round
While my heart stands still?

If I didn't care, would it be the same?
Would my every prayer begin and end with just your name?
And would I be sure that this is love beyond compare?
Would all this be true if I didn't care for you?

If I didn't care
Honey child, more than words can say
If I didn't care
Would I feel this way? 
Darlin' if this isn't love
Then why do I thrill so much? 
And what is it that makes my head go 'round and 'round 
While my heart just stands still so much?

If I didn't care would it be the same?
Would my every prayer begin and end with just your name?
And would I be sure that this is love beyond compare?
Would all this be true if I didn't care for you?

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The Ink Spots

The Ink Spots were a vocal group in the 1930s and 1940s that helped define the musical genre that led to rhythm and blues and rock and roll, and the subgenre doo-wop. They and the Mills Brothers, another black vocal group of the same period, gained much acceptance in both the white community and black community. They were inducted into the vocal group hall of fame in 1999. more »

3 fans

Written by: Jack Lawrence

Lyrics © CARLIN AMERICA INC, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


11 facts about this song

Historical Significance
"If I Didn't Care" is often considered one of the most enduring standards of the 20th century, thanks to its timeless message and unique sound.
Cultural Impact
This song was used in several popular films and TV shows making it even more recognizable to the audiences. It was included in the films "The Shawshank Redemption" and "The Green Mile".
Release Year
Despite its timeless appeal, the song was actually released way back in 1939.
Popularity
"If I Didn't Care" is The Ink Spot's most popular song. It sold over 19 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling singles of all time.
Record Label
The track was released by Decca Records, a prominent record label at that time.
Chart Success
Upon release, the song rapidly climbed up the charts and reached number 2 on the US Billboard Pop chart.
Song Composition
The song was written by The Ink Spots' manager, Jack Lawrence, and showcases the group's classic combination of beautiful harmonies and lead tenor Bill Kenny's high, clear vocals.
Song Meaning
The lyrics of "If I Didn't Care" are about profound love and the doubt that comes with it. It explores the themes of uncertainty and reassurance in a relationship.
Covers
Due to its popularity, the song has been covered by many artists over the years, including Connie Francis, The Platters, and Brenda Lee.
Film Roles
The song also plays a significant role in the 1994 film "Blown Away," where it is used as a significant plot point. A recording of the song is also used several times in the film "Radio Days".
Legacy
Almost 80 years after its release, "If I Didn't Care" remains one of the most recognizable songs from the pre-rock era. The song is considered a hallmark of the 'golden age' of American popular music.

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