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The Year of Tony Bennett

An Appreciation of the Art and Music of Tony Bennett

September 20, 2023 By Suzanne Leave a Comment

Song of the Day: The Right To Love

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.

Filed Under: Song of the Day Tagged With: Don Costa, Gene Lees, If I Ruled The World: Songs For The Jet Set, Lalo Schifrin, Tony Bennett

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