The Songwriting Journey of The Everly Brothers

The Everly Brothers, Phil and Don, are one of the most iconic and influential duos in the history of rock and roll. Their unique harmonies and catchy melodies have captured the hearts of music lovers for decades. While some of their greatest hits were penned by other talented songwriters, the Brothers Everly also had a hand in crafting and recording many of their own songs. In this article, we will explore their songwriting journey and the credits behind some of their most famous tracks.

Phil and Don Everly: A Musical Legacy

The Everly Brothers are renowned not only for their groundbreaking music but also for their resilience and willingness to innovate. Their music spans from the early rock and roll of the 1950s to hit songs in the 1960s and beyond. While they started out as songwriters and performers, they also contributed to the music industry as producers and record labels, further cementing their role in music history.

Self-Composed Hits and Collaborations

The Everlys wrote several songs that became major hits. One such example is their hit song, “When Will I Be Loved” (1960), which they co-wrote with the help of other industry professionals. However, their most celebrated and commercially successful hits like “All I Have to Do Is Dream” and “Cathy’s Clown” were created in collaboration with Boudleaux and Felice Bryant, an itinerant songwriting duo. These songs, with their storytelling prowess, became classics in the annals of rock and roll.

Notable Covers and External Contributions

While the Everlys were prolific writers, they also covered songs that gained tremendous popularity. For instance, “Twist and Shout,” written by Bert Berns, was a hit for the Everly Brothers. Another well-known cover was “It's Your Thing,” which they wrote but was initially published by other songwriters. These covers, along with their originals, helped establish the Everlys as versatile artists capable of delivering hits across different genres.

Documenting their Legacy

Their contributions to the music industry were not lost on the public. A documentary titled Heavenly Harmonies (available on YouTube) was produced after the passing of one of the Everlys, providing insight into their creative process and the bond between them. Additionally, a BBC Radio 4 documentary toured their hometown, highlighting the impact of their music and the challenges they faced during their career. These documentaries offer glimpses into the Everly Brothers' musical journey and the people behind their legendary songs.

While The Everly Brothers wrote some of their own songs and had notable covers, their biggest hits were often the result of collaborations. Understanding their contributions and the origins of their hits can help us appreciate their talent and the importance of teamwork in the music industry.