Wayne Newton - Husbands And Wives

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Wayne Newton
Husbands And Wives / I Just Can't Help Believin'
MGM K 14014 (1968)

Wayne Newton was one of the most popular singers of the mid 20th century, at his peak being credited as being more popular in Las Vegas than Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley. Starting his musical career in the early 50s he was performing well into his later years including a headlining show at Caesar's Palace, Las Vegas in 2019.

This late 60s 45 is very much in the style of popular music at that time, sounding very much like a Jimmy Webb tune but actually written by Roger Miller the US country singer/songwriter.  Whilst an interesting tune it's own right it is the flip side that interests me most.

The song I Just Can't Help Believin' is perhaps mostly associated with Elvis Presley however this classic tune, written by Barry Mann & Cynthia Well, was recorded by several singers before Elvis released his 1971 definitive version.  Prior to Elvis, versions were recorded by BJ Thomas, Bobby Vee, Bob Dielo, Barry Mann himself and Leonard Nimoy! In total there were at least 10 different versions released on 45s or as an LP track before the song became the hit it was.  

Whilst, in my opinion, the Elvis version is the master, this is a good take of the song and I have included the video below for your listening pleasure.






FLAC






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