About the song
“Make It Easy on Yourself” by Little Anthony & The Imperials is a soulful rendition of a timeless classic that highlights the group’s exceptional ability to convey raw emotion through their harmonies and heartfelt delivery. Originally penned by songwriting legends Burt Bacharach and Hal David, the song has been interpreted by various artists over the years, but Little Anthony & The Imperials’ version stands out for its delicate mix of vulnerability and vocal precision.
Background and Release
The song was first popularized in 1962 by Jerry Butler, becoming a hit with its deeply emotional tone and orchestral arrangement. Little Anthony & The Imperials, known for their mastery of doo-wop and soul, later included “Make It Easy on Yourself” in their live performances and recordings, demonstrating their versatility as artists capable of reinterpreting classic compositions. While not tied to a specific album release for their version, their take on the song showcases the enduring appeal of Bacharach and David’s work as filtered through the unique lens of Little Anthony’s falsetto and the group’s impeccable harmonies.
Musical Composition and Delivery
The core of “Make It Easy on Yourself” lies in its simple yet deeply emotional plea for grace in the face of heartbreak. The lyrics center on a narrator urging their partner to make the inevitable breakup as painless as possible, a theme that resonates universally. Lines like “If you really love him, and there’s nothing I can do” capture the pain of unreciprocated love while maintaining an undercurrent of compassion and understanding.
Little Anthony’s voice, known for its soaring falsetto and expressive depth, brings a unique vulnerability to the song. His interpretation feels personal, as if he’s drawing from a well of lived experiences. The group’s harmonies, meanwhile, elevate the song, adding layers of richness and a sense of collective sorrow. The restrained instrumentation allows the vocals to take center stage, emphasizing the raw emotion at the heart of the piece.
Lyrical Themes and Emotional Impact
At its core, “Make It Easy on Yourself” is a song about love, loss, and the grace of letting go. It speaks to the universal human experience of heartbreak and the longing for closure without bitterness. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to articulate feelings that are often hard to put into words, making it a cathartic experience for listeners navigating similar emotional journeys.
Cultural and Social Influence
Though Little Anthony & The Imperials’ version of the song may not have garnered the same level of commercial success as Jerry Butler’s or other renditions, it remains a cherished interpretation within their repertoire. It highlights their ability to take a song and make it their own, infusing it with the emotional intensity and vocal excellence for which they are known. The track also underscores the timeless nature of Bacharach and David’s songwriting, demonstrating how their work transcends genres and eras.
For audiences of the time, the song resonated deeply with those grappling with the complexities of relationships and the pain of parting ways. Even today, it serves as a reminder of the beauty and vulnerability that come with love, as well as the strength required to let go.
Legacy
“Make It Easy on Yourself” by Little Anthony & The Imperials stands as a testament to the group’s artistry and their ability to bring fresh perspectives to established classics. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the group or discovering their music for the first time, this rendition is sure to leave a lasting impression. It’s a timeless example of how music can bridge the gap between the personal and the universal, offering solace and understanding in equal measure.
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Lyrics
[Verse 1]
Make it easy on yourself
Let her play her game with someone else
You are playing with her rules
Right or wrong, you’re gonna lose
Make it easy on yourself (Make it easy on yourself)[Verse 2]
Give her up, find someone new
Watch the girl, she’s not in love with you
There is nothing left to save
So why make yourself a slave?
Make it easy on yourself (Make it easy on yourself)[Bridge]
She’s gonna change the way you walk
And change the way you talk
When she is through
She’s gonna make you walk the line
While she makes up her mind
That she’s through with you (She’s through with you)[Verse 3]
Make it easy on yourself
Even though your heart will hurt you a while
It’s much better in the end
And it hurts more to pretend
Make it easy on yourself
It’s much better in the end
And it hurts more to pretend
Make it easy on yourself[Outro]
(Easy, on yourself)
Come on baby, make it easy on yourself
(Easy, on yourself)
Don’t, don’t make it hard on yourself, baby
(Easy, on yourself)
Daddy’s gonna treat you right, baby, don’t worry
(Easy, on yourself)
Come on, baby, make it easy