About the song

Bobby Rydell’s “We Got Love” is a classic example of early 1960s pop music that perfectly captures the spirit and energy of the era. Released in 1959, this song marked a significant milestone in Rydell’s career, solidifying his status as one of the leading teen idols of the time. With its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and youthful enthusiasm, “We Got Love” quickly became a favorite among fans and a prominent hit on the charts.

The song was written by Bernie Lowe and Kal Mann, two notable figures in the music industry who were instrumental in shaping the sound of Philadelphia’s pop music scene. “We Got Love” was released by Cameo-Parkway Records, a label that played a crucial role in Rydell’s rise to fame. The song’s infectious chorus and joyful lyrics, celebrating the simple yet profound emotion of love, resonated with a generation of teenagers who were drawn to its optimistic message.

“We Got Love” was a commercial success, reaching No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1959. This achievement was particularly significant as it helped Rydell secure his place in the competitive world of pop music, competing with other rising stars of the time. The song’s popularity also extended to international markets, demonstrating Rydell’s broad appeal. In Canada, “We Got Love” climbed to No. 4 on the charts, further establishing his presence on the global music stage.

The success of “We Got Love” was more than just a chart achievement; it marked the beginning of a prolific period in Bobby Rydell’s career. The song’s upbeat and positive vibe became a signature of Rydell’s musical style, which continued to charm audiences throughout the 1960s. His boy-next-door image, combined with his undeniable talent, made him a beloved figure in American pop culture.

“We Got Love” is also notable for its role in defining the sound of the Philadelphia pop scene. The song’s production, featuring lush arrangements and smooth vocals, exemplifies the polished style that came to be associated with the city’s music. This style influenced many other artists of the time and helped establish Philadelphia as a hub for pop music.

Decades later, “We Got Love” remains a nostalgic reminder of a more innocent time in music history. For those who lived through the era, the song brings back memories of youthful exuberance and the excitement of the early days of rock ‘n’ roll. For newer generations, it offers a glimpse into the musical trends that shaped the pop landscape of the 1960s.

In summary, Bobby Rydell’s “We Got Love” is more than just a hit song; it is a piece of musical history that reflects the optimism and energy of its time. Its success helped launch Rydell into stardom and contributed to the development of the Philadelphia pop sound that influenced many artists that followed. The song’s enduring appeal is a testament to its timeless charm and the lasting impact of Bobby Rydell’s music.

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Lyrics

‘Cause you’ve got one lucky fella two love you true
And I got three little words I’m sayin’ with four only you
Five o’clock I call you and by six we got a date
Seven I’ll be heaven-bound and in your arms by eight
Everybody now (we got love)
By the numbers (we got love)
Ooh yeah, yeah, yeah (ain’t it wonderful we got love)
‘Cause I got one million kisses two thrill you through
And I got three thousand hugs I’m savin’ four only you?
Five’ll get you ten, dear, that in six more years we rate
Seven little children, dear, or maybe we’ll have eight
Let me hear it, baby (we got love)
Ah, dontcha know it now (we got love)
Ooh yeah, yeah, yeah (ain?t it wonderful we got love)
When we marry
Five’ll get you ten, dear, that in six more years we rate
Seven little children, dear, or maybe we’ll have eight
All together now (we got love)
Ah let me tell ya (we got love)
Ooh yeah, yeah, yeah (ain’t it wonderful we got love)
One more time (we got love)
Ah dontcha know it baby (we got love)
Ooh yeah, yeah, yeah (ain’t it wonderful we got love)

By Tam Le