Burt Bacharach began as a composer for hire, similar to many classic songwriters of the past, with a style inspired by Cole Porter and the Gershwins. He and lyricist Hal David had early hits with “The Story of My Life” by Marty Robbins and “Magic Moments” by Perry Como.
It took time for them to find success, but eventually, they wrote hit songs for Dionne Warwick and others, leading to a catalogue of timeless classics. Their Top 10 songs span different genres and decades, showcasing their lasting impact on pop, rock, and R&B music.
“That’s What Friends Are For,” Dionne Warwick, Elton John, Gladys Knight and Stevie Wonder (1985)
“That’s What Friends Are For” is a 1985 song performed by Dionne Warwick, Elton John, Gladys Knight, and Stevie Wonder. The song was written by Burt Bacharach and Carole Bayer Sager, and was recorded to raise awareness and funds for the AIDS crisis. The song became a hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning Bacharach and Sager an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song.
“(They Long to Be) Close to You,” Carpenters (1970)
“(They Long to Be) Close to You” is a 1970 song performed by the Carpenters. The song was written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, and became one of the biggest hits of the Carpenters’ career, reaching number one on the Adult Contemporary chart and number four on the Pop chart.
“God Give Me Strength,” Burt Bacharach With Elvis Costello (1996)
“God Give Me Strength” is a 1996 song performed by Burt Bacharach with Elvis Costello. The song was included on the soundtrack to the film “Grace of My Heart,” and was a collaboration between two of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. The song was praised for its powerful lyrics and haunting melody, and is considered one of the best songs of their respective careers.
“A House Is Not a Home,” Luther Vandross (1981)
“A House Is Not a Home” is a 1981 song performed by Luther Vandross. The song was written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, and was a hit for Vandross, reaching number 47 on the R&B chart. The song was praised for its powerful vocals and emotional delivery, and is considered one of Vandross’ greatest performances.
“The Look of Love,” Dusty Springfield (1967)
“The Look of Love” is a 1967 song performed by Dusty Springfield. The song was written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, and was featured in the James Bond film “Casino Royale.” The song became a hit for Springfield, reaching number 22 on the Pop chart and number four on the Adult Contemporary chart.
“My Little Red Book,” Love (1966)
“My Little Red Book” is a song written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David and recorded by the American rock band Love in 1966. The song is an upbeat and playful tune with a catchy melody and witty lyrics. The song is a nod to Bacharach and David’s love of jazz and soul music and is a showcase of their skills in creating memorable and infectious pop songs.
“Baby It’s You,” The Shirelles (1961)
“Baby It’s You” was recorded by the American girl group The Shirelles in 1961. The song was written by Burt Bacharach, Mack David, and Barney Williams, and is a mid-tempo ballad with a smooth and soulful feel. The song is a classic example of Bacharach’s ability to craft emotive and memorable melodies, and is considered one of his early career highlights.
“What the World Needs Now Is Love,” Jackie DeShannon (1965)
“What the World Needs Now Is Love” is a song written by Burt Bacharach, Hal David, and lyricist B. Motown. The song was originally recorded by Jackie DeShannon in 1965 and became a hit for her, reaching the Top 20 of the pop charts. The song is a gentle ballad with a message of love and hope, and its timeless message has made it a classic of the Bacharach-David catalog.
“I Say a Little Prayer,” Aretha Franklin (1968)
“I Say a Little Prayer” was recorded by Aretha Franklin in 1968 and became one of her biggest hits. The song was written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, and is a mid-tempo soulful ballad with a memorable melody and catchy chorus. The song’s upbeat and optimistic message, combined with Franklin’s powerful vocal performance, helped make it a classic of the soul music genre.
“Walk on By,” Dionne Warwick (1964)
“Walk on By” was recorded by Dionne Warwick in 1964 and became one of her biggest hits. The song was written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, and is a mid-tempo ballad with a memorable melody and hauntingly beautiful arrangement. The song’s upbeat and hopeful message, combined with Warwick’s emotional delivery, made it one of the biggest hits of the year and a classic of the Bacharach-David catalog.