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What The World Needs Now Is Love – Jackie DeShannon

“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.” 

Introduction

Imagine a world in the 1960s, a time marked by social and political unrest. People around the globe were longing for peace, unity, and, most importantly, love. It was during this tumultuous era that “What The World Needs Now Is Love,” a timeless ballad by Jackie DeShannon, emerged as a beacon of hope and a gentle reminder of the universal need for love and compassion. Written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, the song struck a chord with audiences worldwide, its message resonating deeply amid the challenges of the times.

About the Composition

  • Title: What The World Needs Now Is Love
  • Composer: Burt Bacharach (Music), Hal David (Lyrics)
  • Premiere Date: April 15, 1965
  • Album/Opus/Collection: What the World Needs Now Is Love (album by Jackie DeShannon)
  • Genre: Pop, with soul and easy listening influences

Background

Composed by Burt Bacharach with lyrics by Hal David, “What The World Needs Now Is Love” was crafted in 1965 during a period of significant social change. Initially, Bacharach had reservations about the song’s viability, fearing that the theme might be too overtly idealistic for a pop song. However, Jackie DeShannon’s heartfelt performance and the sincerity of the lyrics helped bring the song to life. Its call for love transcended the political divides of the time, making it an anthem for peace and compassion. The song was met with wide acclaim upon release, quickly climbing the charts and solidifying its place in popular music history.

Musical Style

The song’s gentle, flowing melody and understated orchestration are classic examples of Bacharach’s unique approach to pop music. With its simple piano accompaniment and sweeping orchestral arrangements, “What The World Needs Now Is Love” creates an atmosphere of warmth and hope. The song’s structure is straightforward, allowing the lyrical message to remain the focal point. The use of subtle brass and string sections adds a richness to the sound, while DeShannon’s vocal delivery brings a sense of earnestness and urgency to the plea for love. Bacharach’s harmonic choices, particularly his use of suspended chords, add a bittersweet undertone, reinforcing the message’s complexity.

Lyrics/Libretto

The lyrics penned by Hal David are simple yet profoundly impactful. With lines such as “What the world needs now is love, sweet love / It’s the only thing that there’s just too little of,” the song’s message is clear and resonant. The lyrics express a universal longing for love and unity, framing it as a remedy for the world’s suffering. David’s words blend seamlessly with Bacharach’s music, and together, they create a plea that feels both intimate and universal. The song’s repetition of the phrase “no, not just for some, but for everyone” reinforces the idea of inclusivity and the power of collective compassion.

Performance History

Since its release, “What The World Needs Now Is Love” has been performed by numerous artists and has been included in various compilations and tribute albums. Notable performances include those by Dionne Warwick, who brought her own soulful interpretation to the piece, and the rendition by Trijntje Oosterhuis, which highlighted its versatility. The song has been featured in multiple social and cultural events, particularly during times of crisis, where its message of love and unity is especially poignant. Each performance has reaffirmed the song’s timeless appeal and its place as a staple in popular music.

Cultural Impact

“What The World Needs Now Is Love” has had a significant cultural impact, becoming more than just a song but a rallying cry for love and unity. It has been used in various media, from films and television shows to public service announcements, cementing its role in popular culture. During moments of national or global hardship, the song has often been revisited as a symbol of hope. For instance, it was featured in a tribute following the September 11 attacks, highlighting its role as a source of comfort and inspiration in trying times. Its message has inspired generations, making it a piece that transcends its original context and remains relevant across decades.

Legacy

The enduring appeal of “What The World Needs Now Is Love” lies in its universal message and its beautifully crafted simplicity. Even today, as the world continues to face challenges, the song’s call for compassion and empathy remains as relevant as ever. It reminds audiences that, despite differences, love is a shared human need. The legacy of this song is a testament to the power of music to inspire change and foster understanding. Jackie DeShannon’s recording, in particular, remains iconic, and the song has left a lasting mark on both pop music and the broader cultural landscape.

Conclusion

Reflecting on “What The World Needs Now Is Love,” one can’t help but feel a sense of warmth and introspection. The song offers a gentle reminder of what truly matters, urging us to lead with love. If you haven’t yet had the pleasure, I highly recommend listening to Jackie DeShannon’s original recording or Dionne Warwick’s powerful rendition. Each performance brings out a new dimension of this timeless piece, making it a song worth revisiting time and time again.

Video

Lyrics

What the world needs now is love, sweet love
It’s the only thing that there’s just too little of
What the world needs now is love, sweet love
No not just for some but for everyone
Lord, we don’t need another mountain
There are mountains and hillsides enough to climb
There are oceans and rivers enough to cross
Enough to last till the end of time
What the world needs now is love, sweet love
It’s the only thing that there’s just too little of
What the world needs now is love, sweet love
No, not just for some but for everyone
Lord, we don’t need another meadow
There are cornfields and wheat fields enough to grow
There are sunbeams and moonbeams enough to shine
Oh listen, Lord, if you want to know
What the world needs now is love, sweet love
It’s the only thing that there’s just too little of
What the world needs now is love, sweet love
No, not just for some but for everyone
No, not just for some, oh, but just for everyone

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