About the song
“True Love Never Runs Smooth” is a beautifully crafted ballad by Gene Pitney, released in 1963 as part of his album “Blue Gene.” Written by the legendary songwriting duo Burt Bacharach and Hal David, the song is a poignant reflection on the struggles and hardships that often accompany true love. With Pitney’s powerful, emotionally charged vocals, Bacharach’s intricate musical arrangements, and David’s heartfelt lyrics, the song captures a sense of melancholy, longing, and ultimate hope.
Release and Chart Success
Released as a single in 1963, “True Love Never Runs Smooth” became one of Gene Pitney’s notable hits, reaching #21 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and performing even better in the United Kingdom, where it peaked at #10. The song further solidified Pitney’s reputation as one of the most distinctive and dramatic voices in early 1960s pop music.
Meaning and Lyrical Themes
The song’s lyrics convey a timeless truth about love—that it is never easy. From the very first lines, the song reassures listeners that while true love is worth it, it often comes with pain and obstacles:
“Stand aside, everyone! Here comes a love story…
True love never runs smooth…”
Each verse presents different hardships lovers may face—be it social class differences, heartbreak, or emotional challenges—but despite these difficulties, the message is ultimately one of perseverance and hope. Pitney’s vocal delivery makes the song feel deeply personal, as if he is singing from experience, lending the lyrics even greater emotional weight.
Musical Composition
Musically, “True Love Never Runs Smooth” carries all the hallmarks of a Burt Bacharach composition—a sophisticated arrangement, shifting chord progressions, and a melody that conveys both sadness and beauty at once. The song features:
- A dramatic orchestral arrangement, with lush strings and dynamic instrumentation
- A powerful vocal performance by Gene Pitney, filled with emotion and theatrical intensity
- A gradual build-up that mirrors the lyrical theme of struggle and triumph in love
The song’s rich production and cinematic feel make it a perfect example of early 1960s pop music, blending elements of rock, pop, and orchestral balladry.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Though not as widely recognized today as some of Pitney’s other hits like “Town Without Pity” or “24 Hours from Tulsa,” “True Love Never Runs Smooth” remains a classic for fans of early 1960s pop ballads. The song encapsulates an era when heartfelt storytelling, lush orchestration, and passionate vocal performances defined popular music.
For many listeners, “True Love Never Runs Smooth” serves as a reminder that while love can be challenging, its struggles make it all the more meaningful. Thanks to Gene Pitney’s unforgettable voice and Bacharach and David’s masterful songwriting, the song continues to resonate with audiences decades after its release.
Video
Lyrics
stand beside me all the while no matter what goes wrongseparately we’re weak, together we’ll be strongfo-or true love never runs smooth, but i don’t care’cause true love is worth all the pain, the heartaches and tearsthat we may sha-are.{repeat first line of (1): substituting la-la-la-la-la-la-la}(2) when the world outside my arms is pulling us apartpress your lips to mine and hold me with your heartfo-or true love never runs smooth, that’s what they saybut true love is worth all the pain, the heartaches and tearswe have to fa-ace.3) {repeat first two lines of (1): substituting la-la-la-la-la-la-la}Fo-or true love never runs smooth, that’s what they saybut true love is worth all the pain, the heartaches and tearswe have to fa-ace.{repeat just first line of (1): substituting la-la-la-la-la-la-la}{repeat just first line of (1): substituting la-la-la-la-la-la-la}