The Album: After The Loving (1976)
Released in 1976, After the Loving is an album that solidified Engelbert Humperdinck’s position as one of the leading ballad singers of the time. The album captures the essence of the 1970s easy listening genre, combining lush orchestral arrangements with the heartfelt sentiment of classic love songs. While Humperdinck had already found fame with hits like “Release Me” in the 1960s, After the Loving marked a continuation of his evolution as an artist—introducing listeners to more refined, orchestral arrangements that heightened the emotional resonance of his voice.
The album features a number of tracks that focus on the themes of love, heartache, and romance, with “After the Loving” standing out as the centerpiece. The song not only showcases Humperdinck’s vocal prowess but also the impeccable production and arrangements that were characteristic of the era. With sweeping string sections, gentle percussion, and an ever-present piano, the song feels as though it’s a serenade made for an intimate evening. The delicate orchestration and subtle instrumentation work in harmony to support the emotional depth of the lyrics, with the guitar and piano providing the foundation upon which the voice can soar.
“After The Loving”: A Closer Look at the Song
“After The Loving” is a reflection on the tender moments that follow the passionate act of love. The lyrics, written by Barry Mason, are poetic and full of yearning, as they describe the feelings of warmth and closeness that come after the intimacy shared between two lovers. The opening lines set the tone:
“After the loving, I’ll be yours / I’ll be yours, after the loving.”
The repetition of the phrase “after the loving” creates a sense of nostalgia and anticipation, as the song invites the listener to imagine the quiet moments of connection that follow a passionate embrace. The tenderness in Humperdinck’s voice adds layers of depth to the song’s simple but powerful lyrics. There’s a palpable sense of longing and devotion in his performance, one that resonates with anyone who has experienced the emotional complexities of love.
The Musical Arrangement: A Symphony of Sounds
One of the standout aspects of “After The Loving” is its sophisticated musical arrangement. The song is built around an orchestral foundation, with strings playing a significant role in creating the lush atmosphere. The use of violins and cellos adds warmth and depth to the song, underscoring the emotional weight of the lyrics. The song’s orchestral arrangement is lush but not overpowering; the strings provide a gentle but steady backdrop, allowing Engelbert Humperdinck’s voice to take center stage.
In addition to the strings, the gentle piano and soft percussion provide an elegant structure to the piece of music. The piano plays a significant role in guiding the melody, adding a sense of grace to the arrangement. The subtle use of guitar also complements the overall sound, its soft strumming blending seamlessly with the other instruments. The result is a harmonious balance between orchestral elegance and the simplicity of a ballad.
The guitar’s presence in “After The Loving” is understated but essential. It adds a layer of intimacy, providing a smooth contrast to the string-heavy arrangement. The guitar works in tandem with the piano, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that mirrors the tenderness of the song’s subject matter. This combination of piano, strings, and guitar elevates the piece of music, transforming it into an emotionally evocative listening experience.
Humperdinck’s Vocal Performance: Emotion in Every Note
Of course, one of the most significant elements of “After The Loving” is Engelbert Humperdinck’s voice. His deep, rich baritone voice is perfectly suited to the slow, romantic ballad, and he delivers every line with the kind of emotional depth that only comes from years of experience. There is a vulnerability in his delivery, an almost fragile quality that makes his performance all the more moving.
Humperdinck’s phrasing is also notable. He has a way of stretching certain words and letting them linger in the air, allowing the emotion to breathe before moving on to the next lyric. This gives the song a sense of space, allowing each word to resonate with the listener. His voice, smooth and resonant, adds layers of meaning to the lyrics, creating an intimate connection with the audience.
The Timeless Appeal of “After The Loving”
What makes “After The Loving” such a timeless piece of music is its universal appeal. The song deals with themes that are as relevant today as they were in 1976—love, longing, and emotional intimacy. These are feelings that transcend time and place, which is why the song continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. The combination of Humperdinck’s soulful performance, the lush orchestration, and the poignant lyrics creates a piece of music that is as emotionally powerful now as it was when it was first released.
The production of “After The Loving” is also a major factor in its timeless quality. The song’s arrangements feel both classic and contemporary, blending elements of 1960s pop ballads with the more sophisticated sounds of the 1970s. This fusion of old and new gives the song a sense of continuity, bridging generations of music lovers and ensuring its place in the annals of pop history.
Listening Recommendations: Similar Songs to Enjoy
For those who are fans of “After The Loving” and Engelbert Humperdinck’s style, there are several other songs that capture the same emotional intensity and romantic sentiment. If you love the combination of lush orchestration and a heartfelt vocal performance, here are a few tracks that are sure to appeal:
- “Release Me” (1967) – Engelbert Humperdinck
Perhaps Humperdinck’s most famous song, “Release Me” is a poignant ballad about the end of a relationship. Like “After The Loving,” it features a rich orchestral arrangement and showcases Humperdinck’s ability to express deep emotion through his voice. - “The Last Waltz” (1967) – Engelbert Humperdinck
Another classic from Humperdinck, “The Last Waltz” features the same romantic theme and sweeping orchestral arrangement that makes “After The Loving” so captivating. The song is both melancholy and beautiful, offering a similar mix of longing and reflection. - “If You Leave Me Now” (1976) – Chicago
For listeners who enjoy the emotional depth of “After The Loving,” Chicago’s “If You Leave Me Now” offers a similarly evocative exploration of love and loss. The song features lush orchestration and a soft, soulful delivery that will resonate with fans of ballads. - “I Just Want To Be Your Everything” (1977) – Andy Gibb
This song from Andy Gibb offers a more upbeat take on romantic love but retains the lush orchestration and soft melody that are characteristic of 1970s pop ballads. If you’re looking for a more upbeat yet still heartfelt ballad, this track is a perfect choice.
Conclusion: A Song for the Ages
“After The Loving” is a timeless ballad that showcases Engelbert Humperdinck at the peak of his vocal powers. The song’s lush orchestration, heartfelt lyrics, and emotional delivery create a piece of music that transcends generations. Whether you’re listening for the first time or revisiting it after many years, the song’s ability to evoke emotion remains as strong as ever. The combination of piano, guitar, and strings creates a beautiful, harmonious arrangement that perfectly complements Humperdinck’s deeply moving performance. For anyone who appreciates classic love songs or the timeless beauty of 1970s pop ballads, “After The Loving” is a must-listen.
In the end, “After The Loving” is more than just a song—it’s an experience, one that reminds us of the delicate, profound connection between love and music. It’s a piece of music that will continue to be appreciated for its emotional depth, its sophistication, and the timeless voice that brings it to life.