28 JANUARY 1966
‘Ebb Tide’ by the Righteous Brothers (their follow-up to 'Unchained Melody') was at its peak UK chart position of #48 this week. It reached #5 in the US, becoming the best-selling version (but not particularly inspired choice) of a song that had already been recorded many times before (by artists such as the Platters).
Bobby Hatfield recorded this song without Bill Medley. He could not use his own name on the record because under their contract all their songs had to be by the ‘Righteous Brothers’. Earlier singles such as ‘You’ve Lost that Lovin’ Feeling’ prominently featured Medley’s voice, which caused some friction between the duo, and apparently releases like this helped smooth things over. It was produced by Phil Spector.
'First the tide rushes in
Plants a kiss on the shore
Then rolls out to sea and the sea is very still once more
So I rush to your side
Like the oncoming tide with one burning thought
Will your arms open wide?
At last we're face to face
And as we kiss through an embrace
I can tell, I can feel
You are love, you are real
Really mine in the rain, in the dark, in the sun
Like the tide at its ebb
I'm at peace in the web of your arms
Ebb tide'