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Songs Of Gene Pitney
On The Acoustic

songs of gene pitney

Welcome to the melodic world of the "Songs of Gene Pitney,  a renowned American singer-songwriter. He left an indelible mark on the music landscape of the 1950s and 1960s with his emotionally charged ballads and versatile style. In this musical journey, I'll will explore the timeless melodies and stories behind several songs that made Gene Pitney an icon of his era.

From his hits like "It Hurts To Be In Love" and "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance" to the lesser-known gems that captured hearts, join me in rediscovering the magic and enduring influence of the songs that continue to resonate with audiences around the world.

Below you'll find free chords and lyrics sheets, rhythm patterns, demos and more. I'll be adding more Gene Pitney songs to this page a bit later on.

If you'd like to purchase full lesson tutorials they are available for a small fee.

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Gene Pitney Background Info

gene pitney songs

Gene Pitney, born on February 17, 1940, in Hartford, Connecticut, was a prolific and versatile American singer-songwriter of the 1950s and 1960s. With a career spanning several decades, Pitney became renowned for his powerful and emotionally charged ballads. He started his musical journey as a teenager, playing guitar and writing songs.

His unique blend of rock and roll, pop, and country elements set him apart in the music industry. Gene Pitney's distinctive tenor voice delivered heartfelt and passionate performances that resonated with audiences worldwide.

Pitney's career took flight with the release of "(I Wanna) Love My Life Away" in 1961, and he continued to produce chart-topping hits, such as "Town Without Pity" and "Only Love Can Break a Heart." His ability to convey deep emotions through his music made him a favorite among fans seeking songs that touched their hearts.

\Pitney was also a prolific songwriter, contributing to his own success and to the success of other artists. Over the years, he collaborated with renowned songwriters and musicians, leaving an indelible mark on the rock and pop genres. Gene Pitney's enduring influence and melodic contributions continue to be celebrated in the world of music.


Songs Of Gene Pitney
Chords, Lyrics, Rhythm Tips, Tutorials

1. It Hurts To Be In Love

it hurts to be in love gene pitney song

It Hurts To Be In Love was released in 1964 as part of his album "Blue Gene," "It Hurts to Be in Love" stands as one of Gene Pitney's signature songs. The emotionally charged ballad, written by the accomplished songwriting duo of Howard Greenfield and Helen Miller, achieved notable chart success.

In the United States, the song climbed to the 7th position on the Billboard Hot 100, firmly establishing itself as a memorable hit. In the United Kingdom, it reached the 29th spot on the singles chart. While Gene Pitney's rendition remains the most iconic, several artists, including Marc Almond in the 1980s, have covered the song over the years.

The song's lasting appeal lies in its heartfelt and poignant lyrics, with Pitney's powerful and passionate vocal delivery adding a profound emotional dimension. "It Hurts to Be in Love" resonated with audiences, capturing the complexities of love, and became an enduring part of Gene Pitney's musical legacy.

Its ability to convey deep emotions and universal themes has made it a cherished gem in the world of 1960s music.

It Hurts To Be In Love Chords, Rhythm, Demo and Tutorial

  • Drop D Tuning: No
  • Capo: No but original key 4th fret
  • Rhythm: down down up down up down up and repeat - or shuffle
  • Picking: Yes
  • Chords: D, Bm, G, Em, A7, Gbm, F
Chords & Lyrics

 

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2. The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance

themanwhoshotlibertyvalance

The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance was released in 1962. "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance" is one of Gene Pitney's most memorable songs. The song is featured on his album "Only Love Can Break a Heart," released in the same year.

While the song didn't reach the top of the charts, it made a notable impact, peaking at the 4th position on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States.

This compelling song was written by the celebrated songwriting duo of Burt Bacharach and Hal David, known for their immense contributions to the music industry. "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance" tells a gripping and dramatic tale, its title a reference to the iconic Western film of the same name.

Pitney's emotionally charged delivery and the song's evocative storytelling captivated audiences, leaving a lasting impression.

Over the years, several artists have recognized the song's enduring appeal and have recorded their own versions. Notably, legendary artists like Andy Williams and Johnny Mathis offered their renditions, affirming its status as a classic.

The song's title and lyrics have often sparked curiosity, given their association with the classic Western film starring John Wayne and James Stewart. "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance" stands as a testament to Gene Pitney's ability to convey powerful emotions and stories through his music, making it a cherished piece of his musical legacy.

The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance Chords, Rhythm, Demo and Tutorial

  • Drop D Tuning: No
  • Capo: 4th fret
  • Rhythm: root down up root up down up and repeat
  • Picking: Yes
  • Chords: C, Am, F, G, Em

Chords & Lyrics

 

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3. True Love Never Runs Smooth

true love never runs smooth gene pitney song

True Love Never Runs Smooth is a poignant song that was released in 1963. It is part of his album "Only Love Can Break a Heart," which was also released in the same year. The song had a notable chart presence, reaching the 21st position on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States.

The song was written by the talented songwriting duo of Burt Bacharach and Hal David, who are celebrated for their contributions to the music industry. "True Love Never Runs Smooth" is characterized by its evocative and emotive lyrics, capturing the complexities and challenges of love and relationships.

Gene Pitney's vocal delivery brings out the depth of these sentiments, resonating with audiences.

Over the years, several artists have recognized the enduring appeal of "True Love Never Runs Smooth" and have recorded their own versions. This underscores the song's lasting impact and its status as a classic. The song has been covered by artists such as Connie Francis and Bobby Vinton, among others.

True Love Never Runs Smooth Chords, Rhythm, Demo and Tutorial

  • Drop D Tuning: No
  • Capo: No
  • Rhythm: root down up down up root up down up  ... some down-strokes
  • Picking: Yes
  • Chords: G, Gmaj7, Cmaj7, D7, Am/D
Chords & Lyrics

 

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Thanks to all who have joined me on this musical journey exploring Gene Pitney's timeless melodies. Gene Pitney's songs, including unforgettable classics like "It Hurts to Be in Love," "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance," and "True Love Never Runs Smooth," have left a lasting imprint on the music of the 1960s.

I hope that our exploration of his music and the stories behind the songs has been both enlightening and enjoyable. The enduring emotional depth of Gene Pitney's voice and his ability to convey profound emotions through his music continue to captivate audiences around the world. Thank you for celebrating the legacy of this remarkable artist with us.

Your appreciation for his music is a testament to its timeless resonance.



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Gene Pitney - Town Without Pity


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