Bacharach studied music at McGill University and the Mannes School of Music. In the 1950s and the early 1960s he was the pianist, arranger and bandleader for Marlene Dietrich with whom he toured. He teamed with lyricist Hal David and others to write many popular songs in the 1960s and 1970s.
Bacharach's music has been sung by a number of popular singers including The Beatles,The Carpenters, Aretha Franklin, Jack Jones, Tom Jones, Dusty Springfield, Luther Vandross and The Drifters. He met Dionne Warwick, with whom he would form a famed collaboration. His songs are characterized by (1) the use of unexpected harmonic changes and (2) unusual rhythmic patterns and time signatures. He employs times such as 5/4 or 3/2, and frequently goes from one time signature to another in the same song, often after each measure. He also changes keys frequently. An excellent example of his style is "Promises, Promises", from his score to the musical of the same name. He has a total of 52 Top 40 hits. In addition, many of his songs were adapted by jazz artists of the time, such as Stan Getz and Wes Montgomery. The Bacharach-David composition "My Little Red Book", originally recorded by Manfred Mann for the film What's New, Pussycat, and promptly covered by Love in 1965, has become a rock standard. He composed and arranged the soundtrack of the 1967 film Casino Royale.
He has been married four times, to Paula Stewart (1953-1958), to actress Angie Dickinson (1965-1980), to lyricist Carole Bayer Sager (1982-1991) - with whom he collaborated on a number of pieces - and (since 1993) Jane Hanson. He has a total of four children, two girls and two boys.
In 1998 he collaborated on an album called Painted From Memory with singer/songwriter Elvis Costello. His 2005 album At This Time features collaborations with Costello, Rufus Wainwright, and Dr. Dre (who provides bass-and-drum loops).
Bacharach has had cameo roles in a number of Hollywood movies including all three Austin Powers movies. His music is also credited as providing inspiration for these movies.
During subsequent Burt Bacharach concert tours, each show would open with a very brief video clip from the movie Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me, with Mike Myers (as Austin Powers) uttering "Ladies and Gentlemen, Mr. Burt Bacharach".
True Love Never Runs Smooth
Burt Bacharach Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Separately we're weak, together we'll be strong
For true love never runs smooth, but I don't care
'Cause true love is worth all the pain, the heartaches and tears
That we may share
When the world outside my arms is pulling us apart
Press your lips to mine and hold me with your heart
But true love is worth all the pain, the heartaches and tears
We have to face
For true love never runs smooth, that's what they say
But true love is worth all the pain, the heartaches and tears
We have to face
La-la-la-la-la-la-la
La-la-la-la-la-la-la
The lyrics of Burt Bacharach's song "True Love Never Runs Smooth" speak to the enduring and resilient nature of true love amidst the challenges and obstacles that may come its way. The singer expresses a deep commitment to their partner, emphasizing the importance of standing together through all the difficulties that life may bring. The acknowledgment that they are stronger together than apart underscores the idea that love can provide strength and support in times of weakness.
The repeated refrain of "For true love never runs smooth" serves as a reminder that relationships are not always easy and may face bumps along the way. Despite this, the singer declares that they are willing to endure any pain, heartaches, and tears that may arise because they believe that true love is worth it all. This sentiment encapsulates the idea that genuine love transcends temporary struggles and is capable of withstanding even the toughest challenges.
The imagery of the world outside pulling the couple apart suggests external forces or pressures that may threaten the relationship. In response, the singer calls for a deep connection and intimacy, symbolized by pressing lips together and holding each other with the heart. This implies a sense of closeness and emotional bond that can help shield the couple from outside disruptions and keep their love strong.
The use of the refrain at the end of the song emphasizes the central theme that true love is enduring and precious, despite the trials and tribulations it may face. The repetition of the phrase underscores the idea that while love may encounter obstacles, it is ultimately resilient and worth fighting for. The hopeful and reassuring tone of the lyrics, coupled with the la-la-la refrain, conveys a sense of optimism and belief in the power of true love to overcome challenges and endure through time.
Line by Line Meaning
Stand beside me all the while no matter what goes wrong
Remain by my side consistently, regardless of the challenges we encounter.
Separately we're weak, together we'll be strong
Individually, we may lack strength, but united, we can overcome any obstacles.
For true love never runs smooth, but I don't care
Though genuine love is often fraught with difficulties, I am unconcerned by these hardships.
Cause true love is worth all the pain, the heartaches and tears
The value of authentic love justifies enduring the suffering, sorrow, and emotional turmoil.
That we may share
The challenges and difficulties we endure together are a part of our shared experience.
When the world outside my arms is pulling us apart
When external circumstances are threatening to separate us.
Press your lips to mine and hold me with your heart
Show your love through intimate affection and emotional connection.
For true love never runs smooth, that's what they say
It is commonly acknowledged that authentic love is not always easy.
But true love is worth all the pain, the heartaches and tears
However, the essence of true love makes enduring suffering and emotional struggles worthwhile.
We have to face
These challenges are experiences we must confront together.
For true love never runs smooth, that's what they say
It is a widely recognized truth that genuine love is often imperfect and tumultuous.
But true love is worth all the pain, the heartaches and tears
Nonetheless, the depth of true love justifies the heartaches and emotional struggles we endure.
We have to face
These are the realities that we must bravely encounter together.
La-la-la-la-la-la-la
A melodic expression reinforcing the emotional essence of the song, reflecting the joys amidst challenges.
La-la-la-la-la-la-la
Continued melodic expression, embodying resilience and the beauty of love despite difficulties.
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management
Written by: HAL DAVID, BURT BACHARACH
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@maryhelendickinson1669
Truly a gifted bunch!!! Love this song. Thanks for sharing.
@computeruser54321
Wow!! Amazing imagery!!!
@barrydavis987
Pitney was the best!
@eloisamontana3949
Bella...Gene molto bravo
@NewMediaFormat
@computeruser54321 Thanks : )
@NewMediaFormat
@cynthiastr9 : )