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Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head: A Song Born Under Unusual Circumstances
B. J. Thomas’s iconic “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head” isn’t just a catchy tune – it has a surprising backstory. Composed by the legendary songwriting duo Burt Bacharach and Hal David, the song was originally intended for a very different voice.
Believe it or not, Bacharach reportedly wrote the melody with Bob Dylan in mind! While Bacharach has denied this in recent years, Thomas himself remembers this being the initial plan. Finding the right singer proved challenging, and Thomas, then a rising star, was approached.
However, fate almost intervened. Exhausted from touring, Thomas was battling laryngitis the day before recording. His doctor advised against singing, but with no other options, a slightly raspy Thomas went into the studio. The version used in the film “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” captured this rawness, while a separate recording with a healthier Thomas became the hit single.
Despite the less-than-ideal circumstances, “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head” became a sensation. The song’s breezy melody and optimistic lyrics, which encourage perseverance through troubles, resonated with audiences. The contrast between the melancholic ukulele intro and the uplifting chorus added another layer of intrigue.
The song’s success went beyond the charts. It won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1970, solidifying its place in cinema history. “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head” transcended its film origins, becoming a timeless classic covered by artists across genres.
So, the next time you hear this beloved song, remember the unique journey it took to get to our ears. From a possible Dylan collaboration to a raspy recording session, “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head” is a testament to the power of music to uplift us, no matter the circumstances.