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Don’t Talk to Him – Cliff Richard and The Shadows (1963)

The Shadows | Members, Songs, Music, & Facts | Britannica

About the Song

“Don’t Talk to Him” is a song by British singer Cliff Richard and his backing band The Shadows. It was released in November 1963 as the third single from Richard’s fifth studio album, Summer Holiday. The song was written by Bruce Welch and Hank Marvin, two members of The Shadows.

The song is a pop ballad about a young man who is warning a girl not to talk to his rival. The song’s lyrics are simple but effective, and the melody is catchy and memorable. Richard’s vocals are strong and passionate, and The Shadows provide excellent backing with their distinctive guitar sound.

“Don’t Talk to Him” was a commercial success. It reached number two on the UK Singles Chart and number one in Australia. The song was also a critical success, with many critics praising Richard’s vocals and The Shadows’ musicianship.

The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including:

  • The Beatles
  • The Rolling Stones
  • The Beach Boys
  • Roy Orbison
  • Elvis Presley

“Don’t Talk to Him” is a classic pop ballad that has stood the test of time. It is a song that is sure to continue to be enjoyed by listeners for many years to come.

Here are some additional details about the song:

  • The song was recorded in London, England.
  • The song was produced by Norrie Paramor.
  • The song’s B-side was “Do You Want to Dance”.
  • The song was a commercial success, reaching number two on the UK Singles Chart and number one in Australia.
  • The song has been covered by many artists, including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and The Beach Boys.

Here are some interesting facts about the song:

  • The song was originally written for Cliff Richard’s film Summer Holiday.
  • The song was inspired by the film’s plot, which features a love triangle.
  • The song was a major hit in the UK and Australia, and it helped to establish Cliff Richard as one of the most popular singers in the world.

The Shadows interview: 'Cliff Richard was always one of us'

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Lyrics: Don’t Talk to Him

If some guy tells you, I don’t careAnd tells you lies, while I’m not thereDon’t talk to him
And if he tells you, I’m untrueThen darling, here’s what you must doDon’t talk to him
And if he tells you, I’ve been seenWalking round with Sue and JeanHe’s lying again (lying again)
Do anything that you want toBut darling, this I beg of youDon’t talk to him
If you hear the words he has to sayHe’ll break your heartLet your love for me prove strongWhile we are far apart
So just remember what I sayAnd trust in me, while I’m awayFor I’ll be true
And just rememberMy true love is brighter than the moon aboveFor only you
And if this guy should try to sayMy love for you is only playMerely a whim (merely a whim)
Just close your eyes and count to tenThink of me againBut don’t you talk to him
And if he tells you, I’ve been seenWalking round with Sue and JeanHe’s lying again (lying again)
Do anything that you want toBut darling, this I beg of youDon’t talk to him
If you hear the words he has to sayHe’ll break your heartLet your love for me prove strongWhile we are far apart
So just remember what I sayTrust in me, while I’m awayFor I’ll be true
And just rememberMy true love is brighter than the moon aboveFor only you
And if this guy should try to sayMy love for your is only playMerely a whim (merely a whim)
Close your eyes, count to tenThink of me againBut don’t you talk to him

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Long before the sprawling mansions, multi-platinum records, and roaring audiences, Elvis Presley experienced the harsh reality of financial hardship. Growing up in a modest household in Tupelo, Mississippi, his parents, Vernon and Gladys, frequently fought to make ends meet. Even so, Elvis was nurtured by a foundation that would anchor him throughout his life: strong family bonds, deep-rooted faith, and a constant presence of music.

During his days at Humes High School, Elvis Presley was far from the self-assured icon America would soon embrace. After moving to Memphis for a fresh start, his family settled into the Lauderdale Courts public housing. Financial struggles persisted, and memories from his school days reveal that even paying for a simple lunch was a challenge. A former coach even remembered slipping Elvis a quarter every now and then just to ensure he had something to eat.

It feels almost surreal that Elvis Presley left behind a legacy so immense given how brief his journey was. Born into poverty in a modest Tupelo home, he passed away at just 42. Yet within that span, the quiet Mississippi boy forged a voice, a presence, and an emotional resonance capable of transcending generations. His time was far shorter than anyone could have foreseen, but somehow, he made every moment of it monumental.

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