About the song
The Everly Brothers. A name synonymous with rock and roll harmony in the formative years of the genre. Those beautifully intertwined vocals, Don’s smooth baritone a perfect counterpoint to Phil’s soaring tenor, captivated audiences worldwide. Today, we turn our attention to a lesser-known gem from their vast repertoire, a song that perfectly encapsulates their signature sound – “That’s What You Do to Me”.
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Released in 1960, “That’s What You Do to Me” arrived at a time when rock and roll was undergoing a metamorphosis. The raw energy of the 1950s had begun to soften, with ballads and doo-wop influences seeping into the genre. The Everly Brothers, ever the trendsetters, embraced this shift while retaining their signature rock and roll spirit.
“That’s What You Do to Me” is a masterclass in emotional storytelling through song. The lyrics, penned by Bob Montgomery and Earl Sinks, paint a vivid picture of a lovesick narrator completely under the spell of a certain someone. The song opens with a simple yet powerful declaration: “When you walk in, the sunshine disappears”. This sets the melancholic tone, establishing the narrator’s world as one that revolves entirely around the object of his affection.
The beauty of the song lies in its deceptive simplicity. The melody, a gentle, mid-tempo rock ballad, is instantly memorable. Don and Phil’s vocals shine through, their harmonies creating a tapestry of yearning and adoration. Listen closely, and you can almost hear the narrator’s heart fluttering with every “oh” and “woo” that punctuates the lyrics.
“That’s What You Do to Me” is more than just a love song. It’s a testament to the power of the Everly Brothers’ vocal prowess. Their ability to convey complex emotions through seemingly effortless harmonies is what truly elevates this song. It’s a song that lingers long after the final note fades, leaving the listener with a bittersweet feeling of both joy and longing.
So, sit back, relax, and prepare to be transported to a simpler time by the magic of The Everly Brothers. Let “That’s What You Do to Me” wash over you, a testament to the enduring power of great songwriting and vocal artistry.