Introduction:
Raindrops Keep Fallin’ On My Head: A Song with Sunshine and Showers
While Engelbert Humperdinck’s smooth vocals became synonymous with “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head,” the song’s origins lie with the legendary songwriting duo Burt Bacharach and Hal David.
The story goes that Bacharach, known for his unconventional yet catchy melodies, actually came up with the title first – a departure from their usual division of labor where Bacharach composed music and David crafted lyrics. The whimsical title sparked a melody, some say even inspired by Bob Dylan’s phrasing according to B.J. Thomas, who would eventually own the song with his iconic recording.
However, the track wasn’t initially written for Humperdinck. B.J. Thomas himself claims he wasn’t the first choice for the vocals. Regardless, when it came time for the 1969 film “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” directors George Roy Hill and Butch Cassidy himself, Paul Newman, insisted “Raindrops” be included. The song fit perfectly with the film’s quirky and optimistic tone, playing during a montage showcasing Sundance’s (Robert Redford) artistic side.
Released in 1970, B.J. Thomas’s version of “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head” soared to the top of the charts, winning both Academy and Grammy Awards. The song’s enduring popularity led to numerous covers, with Humperdinck’s rendition on his 1970 album “We Made It Happen” becoming another well-known version.
Humperdinck’s interpretation takes a slightly different approach. His signature baritone adds a touch of melancholic charm, perhaps reflecting on the film’s bittersweet ending. Yet, the core message of the song remains – a gentle reminder that life goes on, with sunshine and showers alike. So, put on your favorite version, Engelbert’s or B.J.’s, and let the “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head” wash your worries away.