About the song
“Being Together” by Gene Pitney is a heartfelt and timeless ballad that encapsulates the tender emotions associated with love and companionship. Released in 1963, this song is a shining example of Pitney’s ability to connect deeply with his audience, blending lush orchestration with his distinctive, powerful voice. As one of the leading pop artists of the early 1960s, Gene Pitney gained widespread acclaim for his emotive delivery and ability to express the nuances of love, longing, and heartache through his music. “Being Together” stands as one of his most beautiful and underappreciated tracks, offering a glimpse into the softer side of his musical persona.
Release and Context
“Being Together” was released as a single in 1963 and was later included in Gene Pitney’s album “Gene Pitney Sings” that same year. The track followed a string of successful releases that established Pitney as a versatile artist capable of both upbeat pop hits and melancholic ballads. Known for his smooth voice and commanding presence, Pitney had already made a significant impact in the pop music scene with earlier hits like “Town Without Pity” and “Only Love Can Break a Heart.” However, “Being Together” represented a more intimate, stripped-back approach to songwriting, allowing Pitney’s voice to shine with its raw emotion and sincerity.
The song was part of a series of tracks from the early 1960s that explored the complexities of love, often emphasizing a sense of unity and the fulfillment that comes from being with someone you care about deeply. Unlike many of the heartbreak-themed songs that dominated the charts at the time, “Being Together” is an optimistic anthem, reflecting the joy and contentment found in a loving relationship.
Meaning and Themes
Lyrically, “Being Together” is a simple but profound expression of the joy that comes from companionship. The song conveys the feeling of being complete when with a loved one, capturing the warmth and security that comes from sharing your life with someone special. Lines like “When I’m with you, there’s no place I’d rather be” perfectly encapsulate the theme of finding fulfillment and happiness through love and togetherness.
The song reflects the ideals of the early 1960s, a time when the American cultural landscape was shifting, and pop music often portrayed love as a source of both joy and solace. “Being Together” does not dwell on the difficulties of relationships, but instead celebrates the beauty of unity. The emphasis is on the warmth and emotional connection between two people who find comfort and purpose in each other’s presence.
The song’s gentle, reflective tone resonates with listeners who value emotional depth and sincerity in love songs. It speaks to the universal human desire for connection and intimacy, making it a timeless anthem for couples and anyone who has experienced the peace that comes from being close to someone they care about.
Musical Composition
Musically, “Being Together” features an orchestral arrangement that was typical of many early 1960s ballads. The lush strings and soft percussion serve as a backdrop to Gene Pitney’s rich, baritone voice, which delivers the song’s lyrics with both tenderness and conviction. The song’s melody is slow and flowing, reflecting the emotional weight of the lyrics while allowing the listener to fully appreciate the nuances of the vocal performance.
Pitney’s vocal delivery is the standout element of the track. His ability to express vulnerability while maintaining a sense of strength gives the song its lasting appeal. The emotive quality of his voice creates an intimate atmosphere, as though he’s speaking directly to the listener, making “Being Together” feel like a personal conversation between two people.
The arrangement itself is simple yet effective, with orchestration that builds gradually to a rich, full sound in the chorus. This gives the song an emotional arc, building from a quiet reflection on love to a sweeping celebration of the joy that comes from being with someone special. This kind of arrangement, with its balance of intimacy and grandeur, was typical of the early 1960s ballads that dominated the pop charts, and it perfectly complements the song’s themes.
Cultural and Social Impact
In the context of 1963, “Being Together” arrived at a time when pop music was beginning to move away from the simpler, doo-wop style of the late 1950s and transitioning into more sophisticated arrangements. The early 1960s was a period of cultural change, and popular music often reflected the shifting social landscape. While many songs of the era focused on youthful exuberance or heartbreak, “Being Together” captured a more mature, idealized view of love.
The song’s emphasis on togetherness and emotional fulfillment also reflects broader societal values of the time, when family and relationships were seen as central to personal happiness. For many listeners, the track offered a sense of comfort and reassurance, aligning with the ideals of romantic stability that were celebrated in much of the popular culture of the era.
While “Being Together” was not as commercially successful as some of Gene Pitney’s other hits, it remains a beloved track among his fans. The song’s legacy endures as a quintessential example of the early 1960s pop ballad—a genre that defined an era and set the stage for the more experimental sounds of the late 1960s.
Moreover, Pitney’s influence can still be felt today, as his unique ability to blend pop sensibilities with emotional depth paved the way for future artists in the pop and rock genres. His music continues to resonate with those who appreciate the artistry of classic ballads, and “Being Together” remains a beautiful testament to his skill as a singer and songwriter.
Conclusion
“Being Together” by Gene Pitney is a beautiful example of a classic early 1960s ballad, capturing the essence of love and the fulfillment that comes from sharing life with another person. Released in 1963 as part of his album Gene Pitney Sings, the song features a tender, emotional performance from Pitney, who brings both strength and vulnerability to the lyrics. With its lush orchestration and sincere vocals, “Being Together” remains one of Gene Pitney’s most enduring and cherished tracks, offering a timeless message of love, connection, and the joy of companionship. Its cultural impact may not have been as widespread as some of Pitney’s other hits, but it remains a touching and meaningful expression of the power of love, resonating with listeners across generations.
Video
Lyrics
Being together as two friends
This all our love has ever been
Now even our friendship has gone
When we’re together we’re all alone
Being together to forget
The ones we loved before we met
But now their mem’ries linger on
When we’re together we’re all alone
Being together all this time
With someone else on our mind
For them our love grew stronger as time went by
When we’re together we’re all alone…