Did the Everly Brothers Write the Song 'Nobodys Child'?
The evergreens of the music industry, the Everly Brothers, have left an indelible mark on American folk and rock music. Their contribution to the genre is well known, but how much do we really know about the origins of their songs? A particular song, 'Nobodys Child,' has caught the attention of music enthusiasts and researchers. Did the Everly Brothers write it?
The Background of 'Nobodys Child'
Called 'Nobodys Child,' the song was first recorded by Cy Coben and Mel Foree in 1949. Error. Actually, it was Hank Snow who first recorded the song 'Nobody's Child' in 1950 with the lyrics:
Im nobodys child
Im nobodys child
Just like a flower Im growing wild
No mommies kisses and no daddies smile
No ones wants me Im nobodys child
Hank Snows rendition was released under the title 'Nobody's Child' before being famously covered by other artists including Hank Williams Jr., the Traveling Wilburys, and the Beatles with Tony Sheridan.
The Everly Brothers and Their Influence
The Everly Brothers, Phil and Don, are widely celebrated for their harmonies and unparalleled technique in picking out intricate guitar lines. But did they write the song 'Nobodys Child'? Despite their significant contribution to the music industry, the Brothers did not write this particular song. It's important to acknowledge the original creators and the evolution of a song over time.
What Happened to the Original Verses?
When the Everly Brothers recorded their version of this song, they made changes to the lyrics. In their version, they retained the theme of a child with no parents but altered some of the particulars:
Im Nobodys Child
Im an island in a sea of love
Im a symbol of your emptiness
Im just a tender, tender breeze
This version was released under the title 'Nobody's Child' with the addition of a crescendo section to the song, giving it a more folk feel and somewhat romantic tone. The Everly Brothers did not claim to write the song, but this did not stop them from making it their own.
Comparing the Original and the Everly Brothers Version
Original Lyrics by Cy Coben and Mel Foree:
Im nobodys child
Im nobodys child
Just like a flower Im growing wild
No mommies kisses and no daddies smile
No ones wants me Im nobodys child
Everly Brothers Version:
Im Nobody's child
Im an island in a sea of love
Im a symbol of your emptiness
Im just a tender, tender breeze
While the Everly Brothers did not write the original song, they gave it a fresh new interpretation that resonated with their audience. Their version added a layer of poignancy and a different perspective on the theme of an orphaned child.
Conclusion: The Evolution of a Song
The history of music and songwriting is replete with examples where lyrics and melodies evolve, taking on new meanings and themes. The Everly Brothers are a testament to this. They did not own the original rights to 'Nobodys Child,' but they certainly gave it a new life and ensured it reached a wider audience. This story is a reminder of the importance of recognizing all contributors to a song and how artists can, through their interpretations, add their unique touch to a piece of music.