They were discovered by Richard Barrett, lead singer of the Valentines and eventually signed to End Records. Their first single was "He's Gone" (Pop #71) in August 1957. In January 1958 they released their second single, "Maybe" (#15 Pop; #2 R&B). Several other singles were released on End, though none as successful as "Maybe."
The group was dropped by End in 1959, and Arlene Smith decided to go solo. Lois left to pursue a college education. In 1960, Annette Smith (no relation) replaced Arlene and the group went to Carlton Records, where they had their second huge hit with "Look in My Eyes" (#14 pop, #6 R&B). Several other singles followed and the group switched labels several times. Personnel changed throughout the 60's, with their final single released in 1970.
Arlene fronted a new group of Chantels in the 1970s for oldies shows and continues to perform. The remaining original Chantels reformed as well and hired Noemi (Ami) Ortiz as their new lead singer. Jackie Landry died in 1997.
The Chantels were inducted into The Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2002.
I Love You So
The Chantels Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
I love you so
I want you to know
I'm telling you, darling
I'll never let you go
I need you true
I'm telling you, darling
I'll never let you go
Well, you know
How much I love you
And that we'll never part
And you know that I need you
I'm keeping here in my heart
I love you so
I want you to know
I'm telling you, darling
I'll never let you go
I love you so
The Chantelsā āI Love You Soā is a classic, emotive doo-wop track that explores the depth of the singer's love for their significant other. The song opens up with a declaration of love for the person, which is followed by a declaration of the singerās intention to never let go of the person. The second verse continues with the theme of devotion as the singer reveals their need for the person to be true to them. The songās emotional climax comes when the singer assures the other person that they will never let them go.
The song is a classic example of doo-wop music that emerged in the 1950s and 1960s. The style of music combined rhythm and blues, gospel harmonies, soul, and pop to create a unique sound that was popular with African American audiences. The Chantels were one of the first all-girl groups to gain popularity in the genre. With their tight harmonies and emotive delivery, they were an instant hit among audiences.
Line by Line Meaning
I love you so
I have intense feelings of affection towards you
I want you to know
It's important to me that you are aware of my feelings
I'm telling you, darling
I'm expressing my love to you, my dear
I'll never let you go
I'll always be there for you and never abandon you
I need you true
I require your complete and sincere commitment
I hope you do too
I trust that your feelings towards me are equally deep
Well, you know
You are already aware, but I want to reinforce my love for you
How much I love you
The extent of my love for you is immeasurable
And that we'll never part
We will remain together, never to be separated
And you know that I need you
I am dependent on you and your love
I'm keeping here in my heart
You are a constant presence in my thoughts and emotions
Lyrics Ā© Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: MORRIS LEVY, SONNY NORTON
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
The Influence Of Emme Kay
I love you so
I love you so
I want you to know
I'm telling you, darling
I'll never let you go
I need you true
I hope you do too
I'm telling you, darling
I'll never let you go
Well, you know
How much I love you
And that we'll never part
And you know that I need you
I'm keeping here in my heart
I love you so
I want you to know
I'm telling you, darling
I'll never let you go
I love you so
Thomas Lombardo
One of the best girl groups of all time. š
Still Standing
Perhaps the very best.
Darryl Evans
The great Arlene Smith was only 15 years old when she sang lead on this great song the best record The Chantels ever made Arlene Smith is a living legend .
Joyce Kavanaugh
Maybe
Rick rick
@Joyce Kavanaugh Maybe Baby
Doctor Feinstone
@Rick rick that was the crickets
childishStarnino
zero vulgarity but still a sultry vibe. love it.
Tyler Cosgrove
Absolutely!
Cheryl
This is still one of my favorite songs. Had it played at my wedding for the last dance. The 1st time I heard it was from the movie "look who's talking" . I was SO little... Loved it ever since.
Jamie O'rourke
It's also in mean streets