Cliff Richard, often referred to as the “British Elvis,” is a name synonymous with early rock ‘n’ roll and pop music in the UK. His career spans decades, and his songs have become staples of the genre. One of his most beloved tracks, “It’ll Be Me,” encapsulates the essence of early rock, blending infectious rhythms with heartfelt lyrics. Released in 1960, the song was part of his album Cliff Sings, which marked a pivotal moment in Richard’s career, consolidating his place as a major figure in the British pop and rock scene.
In this review, we will dive into the song’s musical composition, its historical context, and the emotional resonance that continues to make it an enduring piece of music. We’ll also explore the instruments used, the soundscapes that shape the song, and why “It’ll Be Me” remains a defining moment in Cliff Richard’s extensive catalog.
Introduction to the Album Cliff Sings
Cliff Richard’s album Cliff Sings was released in 1959 and holds significant value as one of his first full-length studio albums. Though Richard had already achieved some success with singles like “Living Doll” and “Move It,” Cliff Sings allowed him to experiment more fully with his sound and establish his identity as a recording artist. The album features a mix of rock and roll, ballads, and even a few covers, providing listeners with a diverse experience of the young singer’s talent.
“It’ll Be Me” was one of the standout tracks of the album, showcasing Richard’s signature vocal style and an upbeat, catchy arrangement. Although Richard’s music often merged the sounds of American rock with British pop, this particular song epitomized his ability to deliver both an infectious rhythm and an emotional sincerity. It stands as one of his early rock ‘n’ roll masterpieces, and even decades later, it continues to captivate listeners.
The era in which Cliff Sings was released was a transformative time for rock and roll. British artists like Cliff Richard and his contemporaries were beginning to shape their own identity within the genre, borrowing from the American rock and roll pioneers such as Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, and Chuck Berry, but injecting their own local flavor and personality into the mix.
The Sound and Instruments: An Exploration of Musical Elements
One of the key components that make “It’ll Be Me” such a powerful and enduring piece of music is its infectious energy, underpinned by the driving instrumentation and Cliff Richard’s distinctive vocal performance. The arrangement of the song is a clear example of early British rock ‘n’ roll, with an emphasis on rhythmic guitar riffs, steady drum beats, and melodic piano lines.
Guitar
The guitar plays a pivotal role in creating the song’s energetic atmosphere. A prominent feature of the track is the jangly, rhythmic strumming that dominates the intro and throughout much of the song. The guitar, likely played by one of Richard’s regular backing musicians, provides the driving pulse that propels the song forward. The riff feels both urgent and infectious, capturing the listener’s attention immediately. This guitar work is indicative of the style popularized by American rock bands of the late 50s and early 60s, yet the British musicians infused it with a distinct approach that would go on to influence future rock developments.
In addition to the rhythm guitar, subtle lead guitar licks add flair to the composition. These elements, although relatively simple, effectively enhance the song’s overall sense of excitement, and the intertwining of lead and rhythm guitar work is something that would become characteristic of many of Richard’s later songs.
Piano
Another key element of the song’s composition is the use of the piano. The piano here provides both melodic support and additional layers of harmony that help round out the arrangement. The piano’s bright and bouncy chords serve as a nice counterpoint to the rhythm guitar, contributing to the track’s overall buoyancy. The light, staccato playing also complements Cliff Richard’s vocal delivery, providing a rhythmic backdrop that enhances the sense of urgency in the music.
The piano’s simplicity allows it to blend seamlessly into the overall sound, yet it has just enough presence to be clearly identifiable, especially in the song’s instrumental breaks. This duality of simplicity and purpose is a characteristic of much of Richard’s early work, where the focus remained on the vocal performance and catchy melodies, with the instrumentation serving as a support structure to bring out those elements.
Drums and Bass
The bass and drums in “It’ll Be Me” are integral to the song’s energy. The drum pattern is straightforward, with a consistent backbeat that supports the upbeat rhythm of the track. It provides a rock-solid foundation for the rest of the instruments and Cliff’s vocal lines. The bass, though often played at a steady pace, creates a layer of depth that helps balance the rhythm section. The interplay between the bass and drums is dynamic and steady, providing the musical pulse that drives the song from beginning to end.
Cliff Richard’s Vocal Performance
Of course, the standout feature of “It’ll Be Me” is Cliff Richard’s vocal performance. From the very first line, his voice grabs the listener’s attention. With a mixture of youthful energy, rockabilly swagger, and emotional sincerity, Richard delivers the song’s lyrics with a natural ease that makes it all the more appealing. His vocal range, though not as broad as some of his peers, is perfectly suited to the style of the song, with a clear, strong tone that cuts through the instrumentation.
In “It’ll Be Me,” Richard sings of devotion and unyielding love, but it’s the passion in his voice that elevates the lyrics. His phrasing and delivery infuse the track with an infectious optimism, perfectly matching the song’s upbeat arrangement. Even when the song delves into more intense emotional territory, Richard never loses that sense of youthful exuberance, which is one of the reasons the track resonates so deeply with listeners.
The Lyrics: A Story of Devotion and Passion
“It’ll Be Me” tells a story of undying love and commitment. The lyrics depict a person who, regardless of the circumstances, promises to stand by their partner through thick and thin. This theme of loyalty is a staple in rock ‘n’ roll, often paired with the genre’s energetic, upbeat sound. While the words might be simple and direct, it’s the combination of Richard’s delivery and the musical arrangement that elevate them.
The song is not just a love song—it’s a declaration. Richard’s tone, the driving guitar, and the punchy rhythm section all work in tandem to create a feeling of intense passion and promise. There is something inherently optimistic about the way the song unfolds, a kind of youthful exuberance that seems to suggest that love is both an adventure and a commitment.
Cultural Context and Influence
When “It’ll Be Me” was first released, it was part of a larger movement of British artists adopting and adapting the American rock ‘n’ roll style. While many of Richard’s contemporaries—like The Beatles and The Shadows—would go on to reshape popular music in their own image, songs like “It’ll Be Me” represent an important chapter in the development of British rock.
The song shows Richard’s ability to channel the spirit of American rock pioneers like Elvis Presley, but also infuses his own personality and sensibility into the performance. His voice, with its unique tone and slightly restrained delivery, helped define the “British” side of the rock ‘n’ roll sound. His songs, including “It’ll Be Me,” often blended pop appeal with a rock edge, making them accessible to a wide audience.
Similar Songs and Listening Recommendations
If you enjoy “It’ll Be Me,” there are several other classic Cliff Richard tracks that capture the same energy and emotional depth.
- “Living Doll” – Another hit from Cliff Sings, this track highlights Richard’s unique blend of rock ‘n’ roll and pop. With its infectious chorus and bouncy rhythm, it’s a perfect example of Richard’s early style.
- “Move It” – Often considered one of the first true British rock ‘n’ roll songs, “Move It” marked Cliff Richard’s breakthrough into the genre. Its raw energy and catchy guitar riff make it a must-listen for rock fans.
- “Please Don’t Tease” – This song features a more upbeat, bouncy rhythm and showcases Richard’s ability to merge catchy pop melodies with a rock sensibility.
- “Devil Woman” – Moving into the 1970s, “Devil Woman” represented a more mature, harder-edged sound for Cliff Richard. While the style differs, the song’s haunting melodies and powerful vocal performance are in the same vein as “It’ll Be Me.”
Conclusion
Cliff Richard’s “It’ll Be Me” remains a quintessential piece of music in the rock ‘n’ roll genre. With its timeless sound, infectious energy, and emotional sincerity, it stands as a testament to Richard’s early contributions to popular music. The blend of rhythmic guitar, piano, bass, and drums creates a perfect backdrop for Richard’s impassioned vocal delivery, ensuring that the song resonates with listeners even today. Whether you are a longtime fan or a newcomer to his music, “It’ll Be Me” is a track that should not be overlooked—one that continues to stand the test of time in the world of classic rock.