“Since I Lost My Baby” is a timeless classic originally written by the legendary Smokey Robinson and Warren Moore, and first recorded by The Temptations in 1965. The song quickly became an iconic part of the Motown sound, with its poignant lyrics and heartfelt delivery capturing the emotional essence of loss and heartache. The track features some of Motown’s signature vocal harmonies and rich orchestral arrangements, which contributed to its enduring popularity over the years.
The story behind “Since I Lost My Baby” is one of profound sadness, but also the power of music to express the deepest of emotions. The song speaks of the emotional void left when someone significant is no longer part of your life, a sentiment that resonates universally. The Temptations’ rendition, with its intricate vocal layers and Smokey Robinson’s unforgettable production, became a milestone in soul music history. It’s a song that has been covered by many, but its deep connection to the original Motown sound is what has kept it alive in music history.
In 2014, Engelbert Humperdinck, the internationally celebrated British singer known for his smooth baritone voice, decided to revisit this classic Motown tune. Partnering with Sir Cliff Richard, one of the UK’s most beloved pop icons, Engelbert released a duet version of “Since I Lost My Baby” on his album Engelbert Calling. The album, a celebration of Engelbert’s remarkable career, features collaborations with various artists from different genres, and the duet with Sir Cliff Richard stands out as one of the highlights.
The rendition of “Since I Lost My Baby” by Engelbert and Sir Cliff is a beautiful reimagining of the original. Engelbert’s voice, with its rich, velvety tones, complements Cliff Richard’s smooth, melodic tenor, creating a vocal harmony that is both stirring and elegant. The two vocalists bring a new depth to the song, infusing it with their own unique styles while staying true to the emotional core of the original. Engelbert’s powerful, soulful delivery blends seamlessly with Cliff’s more restrained, melodic phrasing, making their version a fresh interpretation that appeals to both longtime fans of the song and a new generation of listeners.
The duet has an unmistakable charm. The combination of Engelbert’s classic voice and Cliff’s timeless appeal adds an extra layer of emotional gravity to the song’s already poignant lyrics. The arrangement has been subtly updated to reflect their more mature vocal styles, but it retains the emotional sincerity and reflective quality that made the original such a memorable track. Both singers shine in the performance, showing off their vocal abilities while maintaining a deep sense of empathy for the song’s emotional themes.
For those familiar with Engelbert’s romantic ballads or Sir Cliff’s wide-ranging musical career, this duet serves as a powerful reminder of why these two artists have remained beloved for so many years. Engelbert’s smooth baritone and Cliff’s clear tenor have not only withstood the test of time but have also proven to be incredibly versatile, making them well-suited to reinterpret a Motown classic with such reverence.
The release of Engelbert Calling, which featured this duet, was widely praised for bringing together some of the finest voices in contemporary music to celebrate Engelbert Humperdinck’s legacy. The album features collaborations with other legendary artists like Elton John, Willie Nelson, and Gene Simmons, each adding their own magic to Engelbert’s signature style. But the duet with Sir Cliff Richard holds a special place in fans’ hearts, offering an emotional and musical connection that draws on the deep friendship and shared history between the two singers.
This version of “Since I Lost My Baby” beautifully bridges the gap between classic Motown and the timeless appeal of Engelbert and Cliff’s careers. It speaks to the universality of the song’s theme while showcasing the enduring nature of soul music—able to resonate with listeners from different generations. Engelbert and Cliff’s voices, each carrying decades of music history, breathe new life into this Motown masterpiece, proving that some songs, no matter how many years have passed, still have the power to touch hearts deeply.
For those who want to experience this beautiful duet, it is available for streaming on platforms like Spotify and YouTube. Whether you’re a fan of the original Temptations version or a long-time follower of Engelbert and Cliff’s music, this duet is a must-listen—a powerful testament to the timeless beauty of soul music and the lasting friendship between two legendary artists.
