About the song
“Living Doll” by Cliff Richard is a classic track that epitomizes the charm and appeal of mid-20th-century pop music. Released in 1959, this song quickly became a defining hit for Richard and solidified his position as a leading figure in the pop music scene. Featured on the album “The Young Ones”, which shares its name with the film in which the song was prominently featured, “Living Doll” is a quintessential example of the pop sound of the era.
The song’s lyrics revolve around the theme of idealized romance and youthful infatuation. The narrative describes a young man who is enamored with a girl he views as a “living doll” — a perfect and unattainable ideal. The simple, catchy melody and Richard’s smooth vocal delivery create a feel-good atmosphere that resonates with the innocence and optimism of youth.
“Living Doll” was not just a commercial success; it also had a significant cultural impact. Upon its release, it quickly topped the UK Singles Chart and remained a favorite among listeners. The song’s popularity was bolstered by its association with the film of the same name, where Richard’s performance in the movie helped to endear him even further to the public. The success of “Living Doll” showcased Richard’s ability to appeal to a broad audience and helped establish him as a household name.
In addition to its commercial success, “Living Doll” also reflects a broader trend in pop music of the late 1950s. The track’s upbeat, catchy nature is representative of the era’s move towards more lighthearted and accessible pop music, setting the stage for future developments in the genre. Richard’s style, characterized by his charismatic voice and engaging stage presence, influenced many artists who followed in his footsteps, shaping the landscape of popular music for years to come.
The song’s legacy extends beyond its initial release. It remains a beloved classic, frequently featured in retrospectives and compilations that celebrate the golden age of pop music. “Living Doll” continues to be a testament to Cliff Richard’s enduring appeal and his significant contribution to the evolution of pop music. Its timeless charm ensures that it remains an iconic piece of music history, cherished by both those who remember its original release and newer generations discovering it for the first time.
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Lyrics
Got myself a cryin’, talkin’Sleepin’, walkin’, livin’ dollGot to do my best to please herJust ‘cos she’s a livin’ dollGot a rovin’ eyeAnd that is why, she satisfies my soulGot the one and only, walkin’, talkin’, livin’ dollTake a look at her hair, it’s realAnd if you don’t believe what I say, just feelI’m gonna lock her up in a trunkSo, no big hunk can steal her away from meGot myself a cryin’, talkin’Sleepin’, walkin’, livin’ dollGot to do my best to please herJust ‘cos she’s a livin’ dollGot a rovin’ eyeAnd that is why she satisfies my soulGot the one and only, walkin’, talkin’, livin’ dollWell take a look at her hair, it’s realAnd if you don’t believe what I say, just feelGonna lock her up in a trunkSo no big hunk can steal her away from meGot myself a cryin’, talkin’Sleepin’, walkin’, livin’ dollGot to do my best to please herJust ‘cos she’s a livin’ dollGot a rovin’ eyeAnd that is why, she satisfies my soulGot the one and only, walkin’, talkin’, livin’ doll