Dionne Warwick – Walk On By – 1964

About The Song

“Dionne Warwick” is an American singer known for her soulful and sophisticated vocal style. “Walk On By” is one of her signature songs, released in 1964, and is considered a classic in the pop and soul genres.

Five facts about “Walk On By” by Dionne Warwick (1964):

1. Songwriting Team: “Walk On By” was written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, a prolific songwriting duo responsible for many of Dionne Warwick’s hits. The combination of Warwick’s voice and the Bacharach/David compositions became a hallmark of her career.
2. Chart Success: The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It solidified Warwick’s status as a leading figure in the 1960s music scene.
3. Timeless Arrangement: “Walk On By” features a lush orchestral arrangement, showcasing Burt Bacharach’s talent for crafting sophisticated and elegant melodies. The combination of Warwick’s emotive delivery and the intricate musical arrangement contributed to the song’s enduring appeal.
4. Cover Versions: The song has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, including Isaac Hayes, Gloria Gaynor, and The Stranglers. Each rendition reflects the song’s versatility and enduring popularity.
5. Grammy Award: Dionne Warwick’s recording of “Walk On By” earned her a Grammy nomination in 1965 for Best Rhythm & Blues Recording. The song’s impact on the music industry and its recognition by the Grammy Awards underscore its significance in the realm of classic soul and pop music.

Video

Lyrics

If you see me walking down the street
And I start to cry each time we meet
Walk on by, walk on by

Make believe
That you don’t see the tears
Just let me grieve
In private ’cause each time I see you
I break down and cry

Walk on by (don’t stop)
Walk on by (don’t stop)
Walk on by

I just can’t get over losing you
And so if I seem broken and blue
Walk on by, walk on by

Foolish pride
That’s all that I have left
So let me hide
The tears and the sadness you gave me
When you said goodbye

Walk on by (don’t stop)
Walk on by (don’t stop)
Walk on by (don’t stop)
Walk on

Walk on by, walk on by
Foolish pride
Is all that I have left
So let me hide
The tears and the sadness you gave me
When you said goodbye

Walk on by (don’t stop)
Walk on by (don’t stop)
Now you really gotta walk on by (don’t stop)
Baby never even see the tears I cry (don’t stop)
Now you really gotta walk on by (don’t stop)