The Shirelles were a popular American girl group formed in the late 1950s. The group began when four friends—Shirley Owens, Doris Coley, Addie “Micki” Harris, and Beverly Lee—started singing together at their high school in Passaic, New Jersey. Their talent was noticed during a school event.
They became one of the first girl groups to gain national attention. Their soft voices, strong harmony, and charm helped them stand out in the music world. They quickly became famous across the country.
The Shirelles broke barriers for Black women in music. Their success inspired many artists who came after them.
About the Song
Will You Love Me Tomorrow talks about a young woman wondering if love will last after one night. It shows her hope, fear, and need for honesty.
The lyrics speak softly about trust and promises in a new relationship. Its gentle melody and meaningful words made it very popular and memorable.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | November 1, 1960 |
| Album | The World’s Greatest Girls Group (1994) |
| Writers | Carole King, Gerry Goffin & Goffin & King |
| Producers | Luther Dixon |
Background and Historical Context
During the early 1960s, music started to reflect real emotions and personal stories more openly. This song was one of the first to capture a young woman’s feelings of love and uncertainty, setting it apart from many others at the time.
With its honest lyrics and smooth melody, the song moved many listeners and became very popular. It played a role in changing how love songs were created, encouraging more emotional truth.
Over time, the song has been covered by many performers, showing its lasting impact. It remains an essential part of musical heritage and continues to inspire new fans.
Will You Love Me Tomorrow Lyrics by The Shirelles
Verse 1
Tonight you’re mine completely
You give your love so sweetly
Tonight the light of love is in your eyes
But will you love me tomorrow?
Verse 2
Is this a lasting treasure
Or just a moment’s pleasure?
Can I believe the magic of your sighs?
Will you still love me tomorrow?
Bridge
Tonight with words unspoken
You say that I’m the only one
But will my heart be broken
When the night (when the night)
Meets the morning (meets the morning) sun?
Verse 3
I’d like to know that your love
Is love I can be sure of
So tell me now, and I won’t ask again
Will you still love me tomorrow?
Instrumental Break
Outro
So tell me now, and I won’t ask again
Will you still love me tomorrow?
Will you still love me tomorrow?
Will you still love me tomorrow?
Notable Artists Versions
Here is a list of notable artists who have recorded versions of Will You Love Me Tomorrow (also known as Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow):
1. Carole King
On her 1971 album Tapestry, Carole King sang the song slowly and with sincere feelings. Joni Mitchell and James Taylor added soft background voices, making it sound mature and thoughtful.
2. The Four Seasons
The Four Seasons gave the song a smooth pop sound with strong male vocals. Their version was catchy and became a hit in the late 1960s.
3. Linda Ronstadt
Linda Ronstadt’s voice made the song sound full of longing and heart. Her country-style twist gave it a new feeling while keeping the sadness in the lyrics.
4. Smokey Robinson
Smokey Robinson’s version was sweet and soulful. His smooth voice added a soft, romantic feel, and it was later sampled in a Kanye West song.
5. Roberta Flack
Roberta Flack brought quiet power and deep emotion to the song. Her slow, rich style gave it a pure, warm tone.
6. Melanie
Melanie’s voice gave the song a dreamy and folksy vibe. Her version became popular in both the U.S. and the UK.
7. Dana Valery
Dana Valery turned the song into a dance track with a disco beat. It kept the meaning but made you want to move.
8. Dave Mason
Dave Mason’s version had a soft rock sound with a gentle rhythm. It felt calm, but still asked the same strong question.
9. Ram & Tam
Ram & Tam brought a Jamaican beat to the song, making it sound fresh and upbeat. Their version was fun but still meaningful.
10. Dionne Warwick
Dionne Warwick sang it with warmth and grace. The Shirelles joined her, adding a special touch since they sang the original.
11. Amy Winehouse
Amy Winehouse sang the song with raw feeling and her unique voice. It sounded sad and soulful, as if she really felt the words.
12. Leslie Grace
Leslie Grace turned the song into a Latin hit with lively rhythms. She kept the feeling of love and doubt, but made it fun to dance to.
13. Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift sang the song live to honor Carole King. Her soft performance showed respect and love for the classic.
14. Brandy Clark
Brandy Clark gave the song a country feel with strong storytelling. Her version brought out the honest emotions behind the lyrics.
Similar Songs Like Will You Love Me Tomorrow
Love Will You Love Me Tomorrow? These other Shirelles songs have the same soft sound, strong emotion, and beautiful group singing:
- Mama Said: With a soft, comforting tone, this song reminds listeners that bad days will pass. The chorus has a hopeful, motherly message that stays with you.
- Dedicated to the One I Love: Starting with rich harmonies, this sweet ballad shows commitment. The gentle lyrics express love for someone even when you’re apart.
- Baby It’s You: It opens with a lonely tone and builds into a bold chorus. The lyrics speak about loving someone despite their flaws and mistakes.
- Soldier Boy: Telling the story of a girl waiting for her love to return, this song touches hearts with its slow beat and sincere promise.
Awards for the Song
| Category | Year |
|---|---|
| Grammy Hall of Fame | 1999 |
Similar Artists Like The Shirelles
These groups have a similar sound, filled with rich harmony and emotional songs, just like The Shirelles:
- The Ronettes
Genre: Pop, R&B, Girl Group
Top Albums: Presenting the Fabulous Ronettes (1964) - The Crystals
Genre: Pop, Girl Group, Rock
Top Albums: Twist Uptown (1962) - Martha and the Vandellas
Genre: Soul, R&B, Motown
Top Albums: Dance Party (1965), Watchout! (1966) - The Marvelettes
Genre: R&B, Soul, Pop
Top Albums: Playboy (1962), The Marvelettes (1967)
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Will You Love Me Tomorrow Gain Popularity Fast?
Its honest lyrics, relatable theme, and soulful vocals related greatly, helping it quickly connect with a broad, cross-generational audience.
How Radio Boosted Will You Love Me Tomorrow’s Popularity?
Heavy radio rotation exposed diverse audiences to its unique message, fueling widespread acclaim.
Why is Will You Love Me Tomorrow Still Remembered Today?
The emotions of love and doubt it conveys remain relatable across generations.
