Next Door to an Angel” – Neil Sedaka’s 1962 Classic

Released in 1962, Neil Sedaka’s hit “Next Door to an Angel” quickly climbed the Billboard Hot 100 chart, landing in the top 10. The song tells the story of a young man smitten with the girl next door, capturing listeners with Sedaka’s smooth vocals and the catchy melody that helped make it one of his most beloved songs.

Neil Sedaka: A Musical Legend

Neil Sedaka, born in Brooklyn in 1939, has enjoyed a remarkable career spanning decades. He began studying piano at the age of eight, setting the stage for his journey as a performer and songwriter. In the late 1950s, Sedaka teamed up with lyricist Howard Greenfield, creating hits like “Oh! Carol” and “Stairway to Heaven,” which launched him into stardom.

In 1958, Sedaka signed with RCA Victor and released his debut single, The Diary, which became a chart success. Through the 1960s and 70s, Sedaka continued to release hit songs, including “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do” and “Laughter in the Rain.” His legacy is marked by his induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, an honor that reflects his influence on generations of musicians.

Neil Sedaka’s work, including “Next Door to an Angel,” remains a testament to his talent and enduring impact on the music industry.

Lyrics Analysis

“Next Door to an Angel” paints a vivid picture of infatuation and the idealization of a love interest. The subject of the song is portrayed as ethereal, almost otherworldly, with qualities that set her apart from ordinary experiences. This can be seen as a reflection of the intense emotions and fantasies often associated with young love.

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The juxtaposition of the “boy next door” with the subject suggests a sense of longing and desire for something beyond the ordinary. The song captures the essence of youthful infatuation, where every moment feels magical and the object of affection is placed on a pedestal.

Did You Know?

• Neil Sedaka released “Next Door to an Angel” in 1962.
• The song soared to number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
• It was co-written by Neil Sedaka and his frequent collaborator Howard Greenfield, blending Sedaka’s signature style with catchy lyrics and melodies.

🎵 Sing along to this classic hit! 🎤

Lyrics

I’m living right next door to an angelAnd I just found out todayI’m living right next door to an angelAnd she only lives a house awayShe used to be a skinny little girlBut all of a sudden she’s out of this worldI’m living right next door to an angelAnd I’m gonna make that angel mine

Since I saw her this morningI’m on cloud number nineThere’s a garden of EdenAt the house next door to mineI took a look and oh what a shockTo find a little bit of heavenRight here on the blockI’m living right next door to an angelAnd I’m gonna make that angel mine

I can’t believe that this is the girl next doorHer funny little face isn’t funny no moreSixteen and oh what a dreamAin’t it strange how she changedInto such a lovely angel

Saw her walkin’ down main streetAnd I couldn’t believe my eyesIt used to be such a plain streetBut now it’s paradise

I feel so happy I’m feelin’ so goodI’m the luckiest devil in the neighbourhoodI’m living right next door to an angelAnd I’m gonna make that angel mine