Introduction:
A Man and a Woman: A Song of Love and Longing
Engelbert Humperdinck’s “A Man and a Woman” isn’t quite his own creation, but rather a cover song that found a new home in his rich baritone. To understand the song’s history, we need to travel back to 1966 and a French film titled “Un Homme et Une Femme” (A Man and a Woman).
The film, directed by Claude Lelouch, captured the hearts of audiences with its innovative editing style and a melancholic love story. Francis Lai, the film’s composer, created a beautiful score that perfectly complemented the narrative. Among the most impactful pieces was the main theme, a simple yet evocative melody titled “Cha Cha Cha.”
However, “Cha Cha Cha” wasn’t meant for singing. It was producer Pierre Barouh who saw the potential for a song with lyrics. He collaborated with lyricist Jerry Keller to transform the instrumental piece into “A Man and a Woman.” The English lyrics retained the film’s theme of love and loss, painting a picture of a man yearning for a woman who’s no longer by his side.
The song quickly gained traction in Europe, becoming a hit for French singer Nicole Croisille. It wasn’t long before English-speaking audiences craved their own version. Enter Engelbert Humperdinck, then still known as Gerry Dorsey. Fresh off his success with the ballad “Release Me,” Humperdinck was looking for new material that suited his powerful voice and romantic persona.
In 1968, Humperdinck’s version of “A Man and a Woman” was released on his album “A Man Without Love.” His interpretation, infused with a touch of theatricality and a deep yearning, resonated with listeners. The song became a staple of his live performances and helped solidify his image as the king of romantic ballads.
“A Man and a Woman” transcended its origins as a film score. It became a timeless love song, covered by artists like Andy Williams, Ella Fitzgerald, and Johnny Mathis. But for many, Engelbert Humperdinck’s version remains the definitive one, a testament to his ability to capture the essence of longing and lost love within a single, beautifully crafted song.