About the Song
“Tears on My Pillow” is a quintessential doo-wop classic written by Sylvester Bradford and Al Lewis in 1958. Performed by Little Anthony & The Imperials, this heartfelt ballad marked the group’s debut under their iconic name, catapulting them to stardom.
Released by End Records, the track became a massive hit, peaking at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 3 in Canada. The record achieved double-sided success, with its B-side, “Two People in the World,” also gaining significant popularity. The single went on to sell over a million copies, solidifying its place as a milestone in doo-wop history and the group’s first major triumph.
Interestingly, early releases of the single were credited simply to The Imperials, as the group had previously performed under names like The Duponts and The Chesters. However, Brooklyn DJ Alan Freed’s habit of spotlighting lead singer Anthony Gourdine as “Little Anthony” during radio introductions gave rise to their enduring moniker, Little Anthony & The Imperials.
The success of “Tears on My Pillow” established the group as a staple of the genre, with its smooth harmonies and Anthony’s emotionally rich vocals striking a chord with audiences. It remained their signature tune until 1964’s “Goin’ Out of My Head.” Over the decades, the group performed the song on celebrated platforms like The Dick Clark Show,
“Tears on My Pillow” remains a timeless classic, capturing the essence of the doo-wop era and Little Anthony & The Imperials’ enduring legacy.
Lyrics
You don’t remember me, but I remember you
‘Twas not so long ago, you broke my heart in two
Tears on my pillow, pain in my heart
Caused by you, you
If we could start anew, I wouldn’t hesitate
I’d gladly take you back, and tempt the hand of fate
Tears on my pillow, pain in my heart, caused by you
Love is not a gadget, love is not a toy
When you find the one you love
She’ll fill your heart with joy
If we could start anew, I wouldn’t hesitate
I’d gladly take you back, and tempt the hand of fate
Tears on my pillow, pain in my heart, caused by you
You (oh oh oh)
You (oh oh oh), you (oh oh oh)
You (oh oh oh) you (oh oh oh)Advertisement
