About the song
Released in July 1965, “Born to Be Together” was one of the later singles by The Ronettes, the legendary girl group fronted by Veronica “Ronnie” Bennett (later Ronnie Spector). The song was produced by Phil Spector and written by the powerhouse duo of Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, who were responsible for some of the biggest hits of the era. It was included in The Ronettes’ debut and only studio album, Presenting the Fabulous Ronettes Featuring Veronica (1964), which remains a landmark in 1960s pop and girl group music.
A Classic Example of the “Wall of Sound”
“Born to Be Together” is a prime example of Phil Spector’s iconic “Wall of Sound” production style, a technique that layered instruments, vocals, and echo effects to create a lush, orchestral feel. The song features dramatic strings, reverberating drums, and soaring harmonies, making it an emotionally charged ballad that stands alongside other Ronettes classics like “Be My Baby” and “Baby, I Love You.”
The track’s grand, cinematic quality was typical of Spector’s productions, but it also carried an intimacy that made it deeply personal. Ronnie Spector’s soulful, yearning vocals shine through, elevating the song’s romantic message with an undeniable sincerity and passion.
Lyrical Themes: Destiny and Devotion
Lyrically, “Born to Be Together” is an ode to fate and unwavering love, a theme common in 1960s pop ballads but given extra weight by The Ronettes’ emotional delivery. The lyrics express the certainty of two lovers who were destined to find each other, emphasizing the idea of love as something preordained and unstoppable.
The song’s chorus, with lines like:
“And I know we were born to be together”
reinforces the belief in love’s inevitability, a theme that resonated deeply with audiences during an era when romance and devotion were central themes in pop music.
Commercial Reception and Legacy
Unlike The Ronettes’ biggest hits, “Born to Be Together” was not a major chart success, peaking at No. 52 on the Billboard Hot 100. Despite this, the song has endured as a hidden gem in their discography, beloved by fans of Spector’s production style and those who appreciate the golden age of girl group music.
Over time, the song has been recognized for its artistic merit, with its lush arrangement and Ronnie Spector’s emotional performance standing as a testament to why The Ronettes were one of the most influential groups of their time.
Impact and Influence
Though it may not have reached the commercial heights of “Be My Baby”, “Born to Be Together” remains an essential piece of The Ronettes’ legacy. It exemplifies the romantic, grandiose nature of 1960s pop, showcasing the full power of the “Wall of Sound” while highlighting Ronnie Spector’s timeless voice.
Today, it serves as a reminder of an era when love songs were drenched in orchestral beauty and raw emotion, solidifying The Ronettes’ place as one of the defining voices of 1960s pop music.
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Lyrics
The moment I saw you,My heart knew it was foreverYou touched meAnd I swear I vowed then and there that I’d neverNo I’d never want somebody else to hold meLet another’s arms enfold meNever everWant nobody but youAnd then you kissed me and whispered tenderlyDarling I love you, I love you, I love youAnd I knew we were born to be togetherWe were born to be togetherBaby, we were born to be togetherI never said a word, but I know you heard me sighin’You held me to your heartAnd I almost started cryin’Almost cryin’Baby, I’m so glad you found meKeep your lovin’ arms around meSay you want me just the way I want youAnd then please kiss me and softly answer meDarling I love you, I love you, I love youI know we were born to be togetherWe were born to be togetherBaby, we were born to be togetherBaby, we were born to be togetherBaby, we were bornTo be together