The Everly Brothers – Ebony Eyes

The Everly Brothers sing "Ebony Eyes"

About the song

In the realm of popular music, few duos have achieved the enduring harmony and heartfelt resonance of The Everly Brothers. Their close-knit sibling bond, coupled with their impeccable vocal blend, gave rise to a string of timeless hits that continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Among their most poignant and enduring ballads is “Ebony Eyes,” a song that encapsulates the depths of sorrow and longing that accompany lost love.

Released in 1961, “Ebony Eyes” stands as a testament to the Everly Brothers’ songwriting prowess and their ability to deliver emotionally charged narratives. The song’s opening lines paint a vivid picture of a young soldier stationed far from home, yearning for his beloved with “ebony eyes”. The lyrics evoke a sense of palpable longing, as the protagonist reminisces about their shared moments and dreams of their eventual reunion.

The song’s melancholic tone is accentuated by the Everly Brothers’ signature harmonies, their voices intertwining in a poignant duet that conveys the depths of the singer’s heartache. The melody, a slow and sorrowful ballad, further underscores the emotional weight of the lyrics, creating an atmosphere of profound sadness and longing.

“Ebony Eyes” gained widespread popularity upon its release, reaching number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1961. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the universal emotions of love, loss, and longing. It has been covered by numerous artists over the years, each interpretation adding a unique touch to the timeless ballad.

The song’s legacy extends beyond its commercial success, as it has become a staple of country and rock music repertoires. Its poignant lyrics and heartfelt melody continue to resonate with listeners worldwide, making “Ebony Eyes” a true classic of American popular music.

Key takeaways:

  • “Ebony Eyes” is a timeless ballad by The Everly Brothers that captures the depths of sorrow and longing associated with lost love.
  • The song’s poignant lyrics, melancholic tone, and signature Everly harmonies create an atmosphere of profound sadness and longing.
  • “Ebony Eyes” has gained widespread popularity and enduring appeal due to its ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level.
  • The song’s legacy extends beyond its commercial success, cementing its place as a classic of American popular music.

Video

Lyrics

On a weekend pass I wouldn’t have had timeTo get home and marry, that baby of mineSo I went to the Chaplain and he authorizedMe to send for my Ebony Eyes
My ebony eyes was coming to meFrom out of the skies on Flight 1203In an hour or two, I would whisper “I do”To my beautiful Ebony Eyes
The plane was way overdueSo I went inside to the airline’s desk and I said“Sir, I wonder why 1203 is so late”He said, “Oh they probably took off lateOr they may have run into some turbulent weather and had to alter the course”
I went back outside and waited at the gateAnd I watched the beacon light from the control towerAs it whipped through the dark ebony skies if it were searching forMy Ebony Eyes
And then came the announcement over the loudspeaker“Would those having relatives or friends on Flight number 1203Please report to the chapel across the street at once”
Then I felt a burning break deep insideAnd I knew the heavenly ebony skiesHad taken my life’s most wonderful prizeMy beautiful Ebony Eyes
If I ever get, to heaven I’ll betThe first angel I’ll recognizeShe’ll smile at me and I know she will beMy beautiful Ebony Eyes(Ooh)