About the song
“Is This What I Get For Loving You?” is a poignant and soulful ballad by the iconic girl group, The Ronettes. Released in 1965, this song captures the emotional turmoil of unrequited love, a theme that resonates deeply with many listeners. The Ronettes, known for their powerful vocals and distinctive style, were one of the most influential girl groups of the 1960s. This track is a fine example of their ability to convey deep emotions through their music.
The song was produced by the legendary Phil Spector, who was renowned for his “Wall of Sound” production technique. This technique involved layering multiple instruments and vocals to create a rich, full sound that became a hallmark of 1960s pop music. In “Is This What I Get For Loving You?”, Spector’s production enhances the emotional weight of the song, with lush orchestration and soaring harmonies that perfectly complement the heartache expressed in the lyrics.
At the heart of the song is the lead vocalist, Ronnie Spector, whose voice carries a mix of vulnerability and strength. She delivers the lyrics with a sincerity that makes the listener feel every word. The song’s narrative revolves around the pain of loving someone who doesn’t return the same level of affection, a sentiment that is timeless and universally understood. Lines like “I thought I was smart / I broke my own heart” encapsulate the self-reflection and sorrow that comes with unfulfilled love.
Despite its heartfelt delivery and production, “Is This What I Get For Loving You?” did not achieve the same commercial success as some of The Ronettes’ other hits like “Be My Baby” or “Baby, I Love You.” However, it remains a favorite among fans and is often cited as one of the group’s most emotionally charged performances. The song’s modest chart performance does not diminish its impact; instead, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of The Ronettes and their ability to touch the hearts of their audience.
Over the years, “Is This What I Get For Loving You?” has been appreciated by fans of classic pop music for its poignant lyrics and powerful vocal delivery. The song is a reminder of the emotional depth that The Ronettes brought to their music, making it a lasting piece of the 1960s pop music legacy. For those who have loved and lost, this song offers a comforting sense of shared experience, a reminder that heartache is a universal part of the human condition.
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Lyrics
There’s been a lot of talk around
That you’ve been seen with a certain party
And now I’m so afraid I’m losing you
Oh baby, don’t tell me you don’t want my love
I couldn’t give it to just anybody
Baby, won’t you tell me it’s not true?
Don’t leave me baby
Don’t tell me it’s over
After I trusted you
And did my best to make you happy
Is this what I get for loving you, baby? (Oh, is this what I get)
Is this what I get for loving you, baby?
There was a night when you held me tight
And you said you’d always love me (you said you’d always love me)
You said you’d never hurt me (you said you’d never hurt me)
What would there be left for me
It’s such a cruel world to be alone in
I always needed you to look out for me
And baby, I’m gonna miss your loving arms
They’re the only arms I feel at home in
Don’t you know how lonely I’m gonna be
Don’t leave me baby
Don’t tell me it’s over
After I trusted you and did my best to make you happy
Is this what I get for loving you, baby? (Oh, is this what I get)
Is this what I get for loving you, baby?
There was a night when you held me tight
And you said you’d always love me (you said you’d always love me)
You said you’d never hurt me (you said you’d never hurt me)
Don’t leave me baby
Is this what I get for loving you, baby? (Is this what I get)
Is this what I get for loving you, baby?
There was a night when you held me tight
And you said you’d always love me (you said you’d always love me)
You said you’d never hurt me (you said you’d never hurt me)
You know I love you, baby