Halfway to Paradise

"Halfway to Paradise" is a popular song, originally recorded in 1961 by Tony Orlando in the United States. It was much more successful in the United Kingdom, recorded by Billy Fury where it reached a peak at number 3 on the British Charts in 1961.^[1] It stayed on the charts for 23 weeks. It became known as Fury's theme tune and was one of his most popular singles. The song also marked the beginning of Fury's burst at the top of the charts that would only begin to slow down on the arrival of fellow Liverpudlian act, the Beatles. The song was a big production for both Fury and Decca and involved a whole orchestra, directed by Ivor Raymonde.^[2] Its success made Fury known for his big ballad numbers, although he began in rock and roll and was always thought of more as a rock musician.

Bobby Vinton revived "Halfway to Paradise" in a mellow, less dynamic version in 1968 (Billboard No. 23). Tina Charles recorded the song for her album Dance Little Lady (1976). Nick Lowe released "Halfway to Paradise" as a single in 1977, without any chart impact. It was later released as a bonus track on the re-release of his 1978 album Jesus of Cool. Australian singer Jason Donovan recorded a cover of the song for his album Let It Be Me (2008).

The song is also referred to in an episode of the 1970s sitcom "Whatever Happened to the Likely Lads" in which Bob and Terry agrue over who it was sung by, Bob erroneously claiming it was by Paul Anka whilst Terry rightly argues the artist to be Billy Fury. The scene ends with Terry loudly reciting a lyric from the song, "I want to be your lover, but your friend is all I'll be" which the landlord of the pub they are in overhears and assumes the lads to be a gay couple, telling them in no uncertain terms "You two fairies - out!".

References

External links

• Full lyrics of this song at MetroLyrics