“Something’s Gotten Hold of My Heart” is a duet by Marc Almond and Gene Pitney, released in January 1989. Originally a solo hit for Pitney in 1967, the song was re-recorded as a duet when Almond, a British singer known for his work in Soft Cell, invited Pitney to collaborate on a new version. This rendition became a massive hit, reaching No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart and showcasing a unique blend of Almond’s contemporary pop style with Pitney’s classic vocal delivery. The song became one of the defining hits of 1989 and marked a successful comeback for Pitney.
The song was originally written by Roger Greenaway and Roger Cook and first recorded by Gene Pitney in 1967. Pitney’s version of “Something’s Gotten Hold of My Heart” is a dramatic ballad that conveys feelings of love, obsession, and emotional intensity. Although it did not chart in the U.S., it was a success in the UK and Europe, where it became a top 10 hit. Marc Almond, who admired Pitney’s work, covered the song on his 1988 album The Stars We Are. His version was well-received, and Almond later invited Pitney to re-record it as a duet, adding a fresh perspective and contrast between Almond’s emotional expressiveness and Pitney’s timeless vocal style.
The lyrics of “Something’s Gotten Hold of My Heart” describe the overwhelming, transformative power of love. The narrator reflects on how love has taken control of them, affecting every aspect of their life. With lines like “Something’s gotten hold of my heart, keeping my soul and my senses apart,” the song conveys a sense of longing, vulnerability, and emotional intensity. The duet version enhances this feeling by juxtaposing the seasoned, heartfelt vocals of Pitney with Almond’s more intense, passionate delivery. Together, they explore both the joy and pain of being deeply in love, capturing the highs and lows that love brings.
Musically, the 1989 duet version is a pop ballad with lush orchestration and a rich, layered production. The arrangement builds gradually, adding strings, guitar, and a steady drum beat that elevates the song’s emotional impact. Marc Almond’s vocal performance is dramatic and expressive, while Gene Pitney’s smooth, classic style adds a nostalgic, timeless quality.
“Something’s Gotten Hold of My Heart” was a major commercial success. Released in January 1989, it quickly topped the UK Singles Chart, holding the No. 1 spot for four weeks and becoming one of the biggest hits of the year. The song also charted well across Europe, reaching the top in countries like Ireland, Germany, Switzerland, and Finland. For Gene Pitney, it marked a significant comeback, introducing his music to a younger audience. For Marc Almond, it was one of his biggest solo hits after his success with Soft Cell’s “Tainted Love,” adding to his reputation as a versatile and passionate performer.