The song of the day for Thursday, September 21, 2023, is “The Right To Love.”
About This Song
“The Right To Love” was written in 1963 by Lalo Schifrin, with lyrics by Gene Lees. It was first recorded, without lyrics, in 1963 on an album called Reflections by Stan Getz and Lalo Schifrin. Tony Bennett liked the song from the beginning and suggested that Gene Lees write the lyrics. The resulting song is an anthem for “forbidden” love. At that time, most people associated the song with interracial relationships; in later years, it has been sung by gay singers. In addition to Bennett’s recording, this song has been recorded by Peggy Lee, Carmen McRae, and k.d. lang.
“The Right To Love” has been searched for on this site more than any other song Tony Bennett recorded.
About This Version
Tony Bennett recorded “The Right To Love” on February 18, 1965, for If I Ruled The World: Songs For The Jet Set. It was arranged by Don Costa.
“The Right To Love,” as well as If I Ruled The World: Songs For The Jet Set, is available on Apple Music.
Please feel free to leave a comment