Neil Sedaka – Breaking Up Is Hard to Do

About the song

Neil Sedaka’s timeless classic, “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do,” encapsulates the universal experience of heartbreak and the emotional turmoil that accompanies the end of a romantic relationship. Released in 1962, during a period when the landscape of popular music was undergoing significant evolution, Sedaka’s ballad stood out for its raw honesty and relatability.

From the moment the gentle piano melody begins, listeners are transported into a world of melancholy introspection. Sedaka’s smooth and emotive vocals delicately convey the pain and confusion of a love that is unraveling. The lyrics, simple yet profound, resonate with anyone who has ever grappled with the complexities of a breakup. Each verse is a poignant reminder of the bittersweet memories and the struggle to let go of a once cherished bond.

What makes “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do” truly timeless is its ability to evoke a range of emotions, from nostalgia to catharsis. Whether it’s the haunting refrain of “don’t take your love away from me” or the resigned acceptance in the lines “remember when we made our vow, for better or for worse,” Sedaka’s heartfelt delivery ensures that every word hits home.

Musically, the song is a masterclass in simplicity and elegance. The lush orchestration provides the perfect backdrop for Sedaka’s emotive vocals, while the subtle harmonies add depth and richness to the overall sound. From the soaring crescendos to the tender whispers, every musical element is meticulously crafted to elicit an emotional response from the listener.

Beyond its musical brilliance, “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do” has also left an indelible mark on popular culture. It has been covered by numerous artists over the years, attesting to its enduring relevance and appeal. Its inclusion in soundtracks and its frequent radio play ensure that it continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, transcending generations and musical genres.

In essence, “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do” is more than just a song; it is a poignant reflection on the human condition. Through its timeless melody and heartfelt lyrics, Neil Sedaka has captured the essence of love and loss, reminding us that even in our darkest moments, we are never truly alone in our pain.

Video

Lyrics

Do do do
Down dooby doo down down
Comma, comma, down dooby doo down down
Comma, comma, down dooby doo down down
Breaking up is hard to do

Don’t take your love away from me
Don’t you leave my heart in misery
If you go then I’ll be blue
‘Cause breaking up is hard to do

Remember when you held me tight
And you kissed me all through the night
Think of all that we’ve been through
And breaking up is hard to do

They say that breaking up is hard to do
Now I know
I know that it’s true
Don’t say that this is the end
Instead of breaking up I wish that we were making up again

I beg of you don’t say goodbye
Can’t we give our love another try?
Come on, baby, let’s start anew
‘Cause breaking up is hard to do

Now I know
I know that it’s true
(Don’t say that this is the end)
Instead of breaking up I wish that we were making up again

I beg of you don’t say goodbye
Can’t we give our love another try?
Come on, baby, let’s start anew
‘Cause breaking up is hard to do

Comma, comma, down dooby doo down down
Comma, comma, down dooby doo down down
Comma, comma, down dooby doo down down
Comma, comma, down dooby doo down