Charlene - I've Never Been To Me (1977/1982)

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  • Опубликовано: 10 фев 2025
  • Note: Click "Show More" for lyrics, and see my RUclips Channel for an HD version of this song that also includes the spoken bridge in the middle that is missing from this version. This seems to be a polarizing song, people either love it or hate it. I expect a lot of thumbs up and thumbs down on this one :)
    From Wiki:
    Charlene Marilynn D'Angelo (born June 1, 1950, Hollywood, California) is an American R&B singer best known as Charlene. She is known for her 1982 popular song "I've Never Been to Me", and is considered a one-hit-wonder. Charlene originally recorded "I've Never Been to Me" in 1976, and the single reached #97 on the US Billboard Hot 100 singles chart in 1977. When released again in 1982, the single reached #3 in the United States (US), and #1 by June 1982, in the UK Singles Chart. The song has been her only Top 40 hit.
    In 1982, Tampa, Florida disc jockey Scott Shannon, then at WRBQ, started playing the song at the behest of a girlfriend, by which time Charlene had lost her recording contract, moved to England and was working in a sweetshop in Ilford, London. Audience reaction was impressive, resulting in the song's second release with the original spoken bridge. The second release was a hit in England as well.
    When the song was first released in the US in 1976, Charlene's legal name was Charlene Duncan from her marriage to record producer Larry Duncan; by the time the song was released in 1982, her name was Charlene Oliver by her subsequent marriage to Englishman Jeff Oliver. The single reached the top of the US pop and adult contemporary charts that year, and the concurrent release of her album I've Never Been to Me, was also relatively successful. The single was one of the year's biggest hits, and the video for the song was filmed at Blickling Hall, Norfolk, England and Charlene wore the wedding dress that she got married in.
    "I've Never Been to Me" was featured as the opening song to the 1994 film The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. The song is mimed onstage by two Sydney drag queens at the Imperial Hotel in Erskineville, Sydney, Australia. The latter performance includes a scene where a plastic "baby doll" (actually a rubber chicken) is hurled into the audience by one of the performing drag queens.
    Lyrics:
    I've Never Been To Me (R. Miller / K. Hirsch - Motown Records, Inc)
    Hey lady, you lady
    Cursing at your life
    You're a discontented mother
    And a regimented wife
    I 've no doubt
    You dream about the things you never do
    But I wish someone had talked to me like I wanna talk to you
    Oh, I've been to Georgia and California and anywhere I could run
    Took the hand of a preacher man
    And we made love in the sun
    But I ran out of places and friendly faces
    Because I had to be free
    I've been to paradise but I've never been to me...
    Please lady please lady
    Don't just walk away
    Cause I have this need to tell you
    Why I'm all alone today
    I can see so much of me still living in your eyes
    Won't you share a part of a weary heart that has lived a million lives
    Oh, I've been to Nice and the isle of Greece
    When I sipped champagne on a yacht
    I moved like Harlow in Monte Carlo
    And showed them what I've got
    I've been undressed by kings
    And I've seen some things that a woman ain't s'pose to see
    I've been to paradise but I've never been to me...
    Hey, you know what paradise is?
    It's a lie
    A fantasy we created about people and places as we like them to be
    But you know what truth is?
    it's that little baby you're holding
    And it's that man you fought with this morning
    The same one you are gonna make love to tonight
    That's truth, that's love
    Sometimes I've been to crying for unborn children
    That might have made me complete
    But I, I took the sweet life
    I never knew I'd be bitter from the sweet
    I spent my life exploring
    The subtle whoring
    That costs too much to be free
    Hey lady I've been to paradise
    But I've never been to me...
    I've been to paradise but I've never been to me...

Комментарии • 4,3 тыс.

  • @LindaSpencer-j9t
    @LindaSpencer-j9t Год назад +546

    I danced to this at my wedding
    My Husband picked me up and danced me round the room well everyone took pictures of us .I have lost him now but we were together for 42 lovely years.

    • @Bertie_magoo
      @Bertie_magoo 11 месяцев назад +17

      It's so nice that you have such special memories of your wedding night. In 42 years I'm sure you made many more xx

    • @smartysmarty1714
      @smartysmarty1714 11 месяцев назад +19

      He's still with you. Just talk to him....and he'll hear.

    • @DerhamPaul-vo8fr
      @DerhamPaul-vo8fr 11 месяцев назад +9

      Ha ha wedding song we have a winner lol

    • @marielnaifesoriano4046
      @marielnaifesoriano4046 10 месяцев назад +3

    • @marktestrow2714
      @marktestrow2714 10 месяцев назад +10

      So sorry for loss. He sounds like a man i would have enjoyed a beer with.. A real man.... Loved his girl and life... Yep!.. A man's man.. here's to him..

  • @maginoongmagmamanok1300
    @maginoongmagmamanok1300 10 месяцев назад +138

    Back in the day when the lyrics of the songs like this linger in our hearts forever.

    • @jersenguard
      @jersenguard 4 месяца назад +1

      Those are good lyrics?

    • @YunaElphabaLovegood
      @YunaElphabaLovegood 2 месяца назад

      @@jersenguard Until the "you are a useless, worthless whore if you never had children part" I'd say they are not bad.

    • @EzraStyles-b6n
      @EzraStyles-b6n 4 дня назад

      @@jersenguard they are the most sicken lyrics in music history

  • @pdmrgm
    @pdmrgm 9 лет назад +3482

    This song saved my life. I was in an abusive relationship. Beaten every day. I played this song all the time and listened to the words. It gave me the strength to walk away from the relationship and seek out the life that this lady had lived. It is a song that is very dear to my heart.

    • @rhondaabel2663
      @rhondaabel2663 8 лет назад +37

      Dear robin am retired po god bless you

    • @thomasponzio8345
      @thomasponzio8345 8 лет назад +51

      good 4 U everyone deserves to be with the right one

    • @loosewheels1000
      @loosewheels1000 8 лет назад +51

      +Robin g Good on you for taking control of your life, now your life is what you want it to be, do what you want, go where you want, never fear anyone again.you're a stronger person now. good luck x

    • @minuteman4199
      @minuteman4199 8 лет назад +23

      +Robin g I am pleased it worked for you, but it's making me want to puke!

    • @transcubadam
      @transcubadam 8 лет назад +53

      +Minute Man Always someone like you there to shit on a positive comment... Why don't you lie down on your back and listen, so, when you do puke- well, I'm sure you can figure it out.

  • @edshoaff3055
    @edshoaff3055 10 месяцев назад +22

    If it were not for the movie Priscilla Queen Of The Desert I would have never known about this fantastic song !

    • @markl2322
      @markl2322 17 дней назад

      Never hear of that movie....must have opened and closed on the same fucking night.

  • @roseyk7677
    @roseyk7677 10 месяцев назад +141

    This was my mother's favourite song. A young girl with 4 children by 29 who she loved dearly.... She sacrificed a lot, yet just as she had began her journey to 'me' she was sadly taken.... I used to hear her sing this song in the house, but being a child it was insignificant, and she appeared old and ancient back then. I'm now the age my mother was when she passed, and I listen back to this song and it's lyrics with a truly different mind. It is nostalgic and sadly tragic at the same time, but I promised my mother that I would embrace my life and remain humble and honest, grateful and live life to the fullest..... I wish she was hear to enjoy that place that she sang about all those years ago, and one day got to get to go to 'me' ❤

    • @mrbigmel3
      @mrbigmel3 9 месяцев назад +5

      Wow ❤❤❤❤xxxx😢.
      X

    • @ashleywalker1411
      @ashleywalker1411 9 месяцев назад +6

      I'm so so sorry. Thank you do much for sharing this beautiful song about your mum. God Bless 🙏🕊

    • @fauzianalwoga
      @fauzianalwoga 9 месяцев назад +4

      Me too😢

    • @ericab9050
      @ericab9050 8 месяцев назад +5

      Wow, I teared up for your mother's sake; I know exactly how she felt. What a beautiful acknowledgment of her dreams from your side. I'm sure she's proud of you.

    • @marktonge4225
      @marktonge4225 8 месяцев назад +1

      ❤🙏❤

  • @rgrader3691
    @rgrader3691 11 месяцев назад +93

    Wow! I hadn't heard this song in years. Glad I found it this evening. Will listen to it many more times...

    • @poorthing
      @poorthing 10 месяцев назад +1

      Same! I left the same comment.
      I forgot about this song, just came upon it tonight

    • @yumisage
      @yumisage 10 месяцев назад

      @@poorthing- Same! It's so refreshing to hear genuine music 😊

  • @jarvislee2003
    @jarvislee2003 11 месяцев назад +97

    Guys, this is music. Live singing, clear n beautiful voices, 0% scantily clad, just pure music with an angelic voice.

    • @BillBiggs1
      @BillBiggs1 10 месяцев назад +3

      And we’ll done UK for taking it to number one where it belonged.

    • @AudieHolland
      @AudieHolland 5 месяцев назад

      Um, Top of the Pops was never live.

  • @jessieang5604
    @jessieang5604 10 месяцев назад +64

    One of the most beautiful and unforgettable songs I have heard. It brought back so many sweet and bitter memories throughout my life's journey so far.

  • @MamallamaLinda
    @MamallamaLinda 10 месяцев назад +65

    I've forgotten about this song until just now. Thank you for this sweet little gem from the past.

  • @paulandreiabayan8116
    @paulandreiabayan8116 4 года назад +230

    My mother sings like how she sings, almost the same.
    I remember when I was a child, she always sing songs like these and I always clung to her and will look at me and to my father every time she would sing the line "I've been to paradise". I always thought until now that the next line is "and I wil never mean to leave."
    But now she only sings it for me and my 2 sister. My father died when I was only 8 years old and my sister had just turned 1 and my mother was also 4 months pregnant that time.
    Now she is a overseas Filipino worker in Syria. Bravely raising me and my siblings alone.
    I've never been sweet to her now unlike when I was young but, I am really blessed to have a mother like her. I really really am.
    Now that father's day is coming near. I wish my father in heaven to be happy and also to my mother who also has been a father to us since 2008. I love you ma.
    I'll make sure that in the near future, I will be a successful man that will carry-on Papa's dream for us. Just wait a little longer, I always hold onto that one thing.

    • @pjleahy7973
      @pjleahy7973 4 года назад +8

      My mam used to sing this too

    • @langitsyu07
      @langitsyu07 4 года назад +2

      Woa man, that's dope

    • @paulchow4046
      @paulchow4046 3 года назад +4

      Yeap you will do it !!!!💪💪💪💪👍👍👍

    • @paulandreiabayan8116
      @paulandreiabayan8116 3 года назад +14

      Thank you guuuuys! I don't know who you are but, I'll remember this for my entire life.

    • @loreleilee453
      @loreleilee453 3 года назад +4

      Your mom must have a very difficult life. 💗💗

  • @alayzagade4965
    @alayzagade4965 5 лет назад +429

    The lyrics, the tune, the voice... I swear, this song is perfect.

    • @dawnhunt7004
      @dawnhunt7004 2 года назад +8

      Brilliant I remember it just couldn't say who sung it.🥰

    • @kayj2093
      @kayj2093 2 года назад +6

      The song was written specifically for her.

    • @Anonim-bi1rj
      @Anonim-bi1rj 2 года назад +3

      Agreed

    • @umyatthu1757
      @umyatthu1757 Год назад +4

      This song was a great gift from the god. The voice, the lyric was awsome.

    • @irw4350
      @irw4350 11 месяцев назад

      Hmmm.......

  • @rebecajohnston1135
    @rebecajohnston1135 Год назад +184

    This was me in my 20's, doing whatever I wanted to do, living by my own rules. Queen of the ball, life of the party. There is a very heavy price to pay when you live in such a shallow place. Praise God for His mercy, grace, love, compassion. I am so blessed with a loving husband, three children, and six grandchildren. Is my life "glamorous"? Probably not but I wouldn't trade the budgeting for tournaments for soccer, baseball, cheerleading, basketball for all the European trips and cruises in the world. Paradise is being at peace with the Lord and all of His riches including our families. 🙏

    • @marktonge4225
      @marktonge4225 10 месяцев назад

      YOLO

    • @alsolt_0410
      @alsolt_0410 10 месяцев назад +1

      Praise God for bounce back to the more clearer and peaceful

    • @marktonge4225
      @marktonge4225 8 месяцев назад +1

      ❤🙏❤

    • @BillDerBerg
      @BillDerBerg 6 месяцев назад

      so you replaced all the partying with religion

    • @rebecajohnston1135
      @rebecajohnston1135 6 месяцев назад +5

      @@BillDerBergno. Religion is a man made concept in the traditional sense of being given a set of rules. I believe in spirituality that coincides with general principles but for me, finding peace within myself, experiencing the joy of motherhood, attaining satisfaction in a job I loved, striving for a balance in life provided more satisfaction than living life that was just never enough. This was my personal journey. We're all different and I see nothing wrong with going out to have a good time and meet people. You mention religion and for me, fanaticism in anything can leave you feeling drained. 🤷🏻‍♀️

  • @arianejanebelano2011
    @arianejanebelano2011 6 месяцев назад +427

    It’s 2024, who’s still with me listening to this song? ❤

  • @jakistuart
    @jakistuart 3 года назад +425

    I remember hearing this as a kid, really got to me and I've never forgotten it.
    Beautifully sung

    • @lyncbear
      @lyncbear 3 года назад +5

      Haunting !! I my listen to it 20+ times a day!

    • @godsbelovedchild1810
      @godsbelovedchild1810 2 года назад +3

      Yeah...it was my paternal aunt's favourite song back when I was 12/13 :'-)

    • @sheldonvee7000
      @sheldonvee7000 2 года назад +4

      Same here love it ever since

    • @arlenesevetar8214
      @arlenesevetar8214 2 года назад

      The singer of this song was my boyfriend for 4 and a 1/2 yes do you have the purpose for this song which I can't reveal. Use your imagination I said boyfriend after 30 years of marriage my husband passed away his wife passed away we both had 2 children we both had grandchildperiod but things aren't always the way they seemed. Whatever the reason was we were the best companion to the whole wide world and the love we shared together he said he never experienced before period again oil is not what it seems to be but he said listen to the words of this song it's my life. So different people have different reasons for loving this song but it's the song on my cell phone it's beautiful, It's wonderful. One of poor language best Written songs. Frank Sinatra executed it beautifully. And my boyfriend saying it great just take a look at him and figure it out. Hes one of the best unfortunately he passed away it'll before years March 15th

    • @getsilvasilva2558
      @getsilvasilva2558 2 года назад

      @@lyncbear v4vv 4vv v v vc. Vc. Vc. Vc. Vcvv4. Vcvvvv vvvv 4 4 v

  • @teemoney116
    @teemoney116 4 месяца назад +21

    At 13, I was mesmerized by this song and her voice. Now as a 60-year-old grandfather, it still touches my soul.

  • @KwentongKare-KareRestaurant
    @KwentongKare-KareRestaurant 10 месяцев назад +47

    In the Philippines radio stations still play this music everyday not many times a day but at least there are still radio stations that play it at least once or twice each day or night . It was simply because many Filipinos love this kind of melodies. Just sharing thanks...

    • @jamesl.4690
      @jamesl.4690 7 месяцев назад

      Sweetnotes from the Philippines does a wonderful version. 3:38

    • @lamibai515
      @lamibai515 7 месяцев назад

      tagos na tagos.nakaka iyak.

    • @ColinWalker-tc9ft
      @ColinWalker-tc9ft 6 месяцев назад +1

      I live in the Philippines too and yes I hear it on the radio ❤❤

    • @lorax2013
      @lorax2013 5 месяцев назад

      I remember - they have great taste in music there.

    • @AudieHolland
      @AudieHolland 5 месяцев назад

      Great singers coming from the Philippines.

  • @rickwolfe8560
    @rickwolfe8560 3 года назад +255

    She should have had many more hits she has a beautiful voice

    • @anthonyagudo208
      @anthonyagudo208 3 года назад +15

      Amen

    • @loreleigoldman2460
      @loreleigoldman2460 2 года назад

      Her voice is AWFUL and has been since 2000.

    • @kaok75-mc1hx
      @kaok75-mc1hx 10 месяцев назад +1

      It aint easy coming down .Another beautiful song by Charlene Duncan

    • @Papangpapa
      @Papangpapa 10 месяцев назад

      She has a duet with Stevie Wonder, Used to Be. I wonder why this song was voted one of the worst songs of all time in a poll conducted by CNN.

    • @ashleywalker1411
      @ashleywalker1411 9 месяцев назад

      This was her message from Souce.

  • @jamesa6045
    @jamesa6045 5 лет назад +253

    I just meet Charlene today. She is absolutely amazing and humble.
    Definitely was a honor!!😊

    • @prryblu
      @prryblu 5 лет назад +6

      Wow-Thats Awesome-What A Beautiful Voice She Has

    • @joesmoe8983
      @joesmoe8983 5 лет назад +3

      James Allen Anything for a like, huh.

    • @spencerdodds2207
      @spencerdodds2207 5 лет назад +9

      What the hell do you know Joe Smoe?

    • @randydraughon1460
      @randydraughon1460 4 года назад +6

      @@joesmoe8983 You're such a hateful troll. You must be a miserable person to bash someone who experienced something nice.

    • @forestgrogorror255
      @forestgrogorror255 4 года назад +2

      This is the worst most poxy song of all time ^spew*

  • @DemandCapture
    @DemandCapture 8 лет назад +375

    I love the depth of honesty and authenticity of this song. We are always being everything else but our true selves

    • @edisonfrisbee6345
      @edisonfrisbee6345 8 лет назад +5

      Ask me how I know you're gay

    • @nottapuppy1360
      @nottapuppy1360 8 лет назад +9

      Anthony, don't listen to people who haven't earned the right to be listened to. I, too, love the song and arrangement and I'm pretty sure I'm not gay. So what if I was?? Beutiful music is just that, beautiful.

    • @edisonfrisbee6345
      @edisonfrisbee6345 8 лет назад

      Nope Eli May, I'm just being my true self. I'm sure Anthony would approve.

    • @doubleghod
      @doubleghod 8 лет назад +8

      When this song came out I was dating a beautiful, blonde Irish chick from the Bronx who was a devout Catholic. On our 2nd this song came on WABC and I turned it up. She looked at me askance, "You don't like this crap, do ya?" "Yea," I replied. "I hope you only like the tune and not those ignorant words, otherwise I don't hold much hope for this relationship." I found out later that the lyrics that were nettling her morality were at 2:20: "I been cryin' for unborn children that might have made me complete, but I took the sweet life," hahahahaahah And also, "I spent my life exploring the subtle whoring,"

    • @unamckillen7125
      @unamckillen7125 8 лет назад +5

      Beautiful, blonde but catholic and prudish. You two could not have married. There are people who judge people on lyrics like this and people who don't. Your ex-girl-friend was definitely in the first category. I think you have not quite decided,

  • @JaneeceFromMontana
    @JaneeceFromMontana Год назад +146

    She sings a song of all of her regrets in life. We can all learn from her words.

    • @kenneththompson8933
      @kenneththompson8933 Год назад +9

      I remember when this song was released. Melancholic, lyrics beautifully sung with excellent arrangements. Evokes many memories of life.

    • @jenjen3040
      @jenjen3040 Год назад +4

      The Captain's regrets

    • @margarita8442
      @margarita8442 Год назад +1

      yes darlinks

    • @kathytanner9191
      @kathytanner9191 5 месяцев назад +1

      It doesn't seem that she has regrets just a realization for her next step.

    • @BillDerBerg
      @BillDerBerg 3 месяца назад

      ​@@kathytanner9191to be laid to rest as a wealthy spinster

  • @mickmcknight162
    @mickmcknight162 Год назад +56

    This song is not just a song, with it's lyrics and how majestically it's sung it's a work of ART!

  • @nevielles
    @nevielles Год назад +10

    A timeless song, with a real message that proper love of self is necessity in order to others truly.

    • @steveelim
      @steveelim 6 месяцев назад

      Can you explain that? Did you say a proper love of self is necessary in order to 'love' others truly? (did you leave out the second 'love' by accident?)

  • @katiesuiter4673
    @katiesuiter4673 7 лет назад +162

    I first heard this song in 1982 when I was going through one of the hardest times... it got me through and to this day when I hear it, it takes me back and touches me. That's the power of music. I'll slays be grateful for Charlene and this song

    • @andriesliebenberg4734
      @andriesliebenberg4734 2 года назад +4

      At least she's been to paradise, most of us have not. No regrets

    • @kayj2093
      @kayj2093 2 года назад +2

      @@andriesliebenberg4734 Such a confusing statement...

    • @davidsmith893
      @davidsmith893 2 года назад +2

      Amen Katie honey. I love you.

    • @Sergidy
      @Sergidy Год назад +2

  • @sharonjonsy9412
    @sharonjonsy9412 11 дней назад +5

    It's 2025, never tire of hearing this unforgettable song and Charlene singing it!

  • @faye54lin
    @faye54lin 6 лет назад +74

    Thank God that I met this song! I’m totally related to the discontent mother and regimented wife....(being a mother of two boys for 10 years)
    I’ve been thinking of running away. Wanna start my life all over again and pursue my real happiness.... But now I know what true love is! The lyrics are so touching and make me think what real happiness is! I’ve realized actually it’s just because I’ve been taking care of these three men but myself. After I communicated with my hubby and let him know I need some my own time. I’ve also shared my chores with my boys and it went well! Now that I’m listening to this song again, I’m so thankful that I didn’t make some stupid choices 😜!

    • @eileenhavern77
      @eileenhavern77 2 года назад +10

      Thank God!! I'm on the other side of the story! I've been to Paradise but am alone at 44!! You missed nothing!

    • @lindabirkes-lance8915
      @lindabirkes-lance8915 2 года назад +13

      When I was 28 I thought of running away from home, my husband, and our two daughters. Life seemed so stifling compared to “my plan.” I stayed, we had another daughter, my husband was the love of my life. I had an amazing career while raising my family. One day I realized I was living MY life that I needed, not the fantasy life that I thought I wanted. My husband died from cancer after 35 years of marriage; I was devastated and if it were not for my 3 adult daughters I would be utterly lost.
      At 67, I am beginning to travel and realize I found ME when I was 22 and married; 25, 27, and 29 when I had daughters. This is just a bonus on the top of my life because I found me so long ago.

    • @lailalivsdatter549
      @lailalivsdatter549 2 года назад +2

      ❤️🤗

    • @davidsmith893
      @davidsmith893 2 года назад +1

      Faye honey, I love you. God bless you.

    • @fayefaye6989
      @fayefaye6989 2 года назад +1

      @@eileenhavern77 Oh, dear. I just read it.
      Thanks for your comments.
      I actually had an another episode.
      My marriage still didn't go well after all the efforts that I had put in, which didn't really echo to my comments above.
      So, I decided to have legal separation. I just needed to survive!
      It's been exactly 1 yr now.
      I've had myself a wonderful yet exciting journey. Thank God I didn't meet "bad" guys😅
      It's funny that after I took a serious decision, he got shocked and started to work on his anxiety issue.
      Now he's really improving and begging me to give him another chance.
      I told him I'm not interested in any relationship at this moment. I felt I'm in control after my journey. I'm more aware of setting up boundaries!!
      Just wanna focus on my 2 sons and enjoy my motherhood.
      And I think I'm happy again!

  • @jenpeterson3712
    @jenpeterson3712 6 лет назад +86

    She is so graceful. Her movements, her voice, everything! Not everyone could sing this song

  • @janburris2773
    @janburris2773 3 года назад +256

    The lyrics are so profound. I love this song.

  • @Wilkoschoices
    @Wilkoschoices 10 месяцев назад +5

    She could sing the telephone directory to me and I'd still want more. One of the most underrated singers ever

  • @lobangqueen909
    @lobangqueen909 4 года назад +107

    Why do I feel that singers in the last few decades before 2000 are so talented n amazing? They seem to be able to sing live so well n effortlessly n most importantly soulfully. Singing with soul is really hard to find these days...
    I love this song when I heard it in the 90s from a compilation album. Only found this live 2 decades later, I don't think I have heard anything better than this! really very well sung!

    • @mustangterrry9122
      @mustangterrry9122 4 года назад +4

      You are so right....

    • @sand9374
      @sand9374 2 года назад +2

      80s was the decade....

    • @ricardoblair6274
      @ricardoblair6274 2 года назад

      music.ruclips.net/video/4FmjBUNvD74/видео.html&feature=share

    • @pretzelbucket
      @pretzelbucket 2 года назад +5

      America in the 70s, in particular, was a fleeting meritocracy for the arts, when bullshit was hard to swallow following a bad war and superficiality could take a backseat to talent. 80s had its merits but by their end all turned to bad business. Eventually, you lose a sophisticated audience and can sell garbage, hence the 90s and later. In the end, there's no need to invest time and money in fostering when you can sell a low-grade product. I imagine playing today's music to us back then. I suppose they'd ask, "what happened!"

    • @sand9374
      @sand9374 2 года назад +1

      @@pretzelbucket Very profound my Friend, I just love the music.

  • @YhwhKhaiMostHigh
    @YhwhKhaiMostHigh 4 года назад +81

    Oh gosh, her voice is so soothing. She sings beautifully live.

  • @freddyleeds9779
    @freddyleeds9779 Год назад +27

    This is one of the most deeply moving songs I've ever heard.

  • @MJF-81
    @MJF-81 3 года назад +71

    She’s sings that beautifully live. Better than the normal version! A wonderful song, I love it.

  • @mamamia5556
    @mamamia5556 10 месяцев назад +142

    I'm listening in 2024 and still stunned with the message 😉

    • @richardplume3212
      @richardplume3212 9 месяцев назад +3

      It real as rain and sun peace friend

    • @joejaydee
      @joejaydee 9 месяцев назад +4

      She screwed Kings 👑

    • @jenniferhonohan4278
      @jenniferhonohan4278 6 месяцев назад +2

      I was a 10 year old singing this song 😮 but a great song nonetheless

    • @steveelim
      @steveelim 6 месяцев назад +1

      What is the message in the song? I can't figure it out.

    • @deborahescalante8594
      @deborahescalante8594 5 месяцев назад +1

      This song brings back some beautiful memories for me. I just had to listen one more time.

  • @BuiltUponARock1
    @BuiltUponARock1 2 года назад +20

    My Mom had a hard life -
    Seen some things and been through some things no one should ever have to. I’m 52 today and it still makes me uncomfortable. Maybe because I remember my mom crying everytime this was on. Now she’s in poor health as am I hopefully one day we will all be in paradise.

    • @tomgreaney1
      @tomgreaney1 Год назад +2

      Stay strong and keep making memories together… best wishes from Ireland 🇮🇪

    • @meganchan5432
      @meganchan5432 10 месяцев назад +1

      52 and still feeling uncomfortable? Come on! I am going on 55 in this 2024! (This photo didn't show but this is true, though I am not so comfortable to show you my HK ID card.) 😅

  • @rodneydodd8084
    @rodneydodd8084 5 месяцев назад +8

    Not ashamed to say I'm 44 and I have always liked this song.

  • @rosemarybelore6622
    @rosemarybelore6622 10 месяцев назад +5

    I’m so glad this song came up on my feed because I haven’t heard it in so long. What a treasure it was and still is. Loved it then and still love it today ❤

  • @asifyoucare
    @asifyoucare 5 лет назад +712

    2020: still listening to this song

  • @amandasmith9426
    @amandasmith9426 10 лет назад +74

    This is one of my all time favorite songs.. she has the voice of an angel. :)

  • @sirdiyreviews4148
    @sirdiyreviews4148 Год назад +8

    Carefull listening to this music ,you will unlock something that takes you back the memory lane, while we lost some, seperated. wondering how they are now, reminising old stories and glad we experience it. Hoping kids today will experince those goldendays

  • @charlierichardson5578
    @charlierichardson5578 Год назад +12

    Hey I’m a 70 year old guy now and came of age with this song. I’m tough as nails too but when I hear her do this song I get all weak in the knee’s. Well done Charlene. By the way my name is Charlie wonder if she was ever called that?

  • @idea1469
    @idea1469 Год назад +12

    Unique. Brave lyrics. Astonishing

    • @Justice-ef9sk
      @Justice-ef9sk Год назад

      For its time....yeah. I was only a kid when this song came out but I can tell it was probably highly controversial

    • @idea1469
      @idea1469 Год назад +1

      I think the meaning and honesty is still relevant and counter to the hedonistic USA culture

  • @Chamorean73
    @Chamorean73 3 года назад +21

    I was in 2nd grade when this came out. About to turn 48 next month and I STILL love this song.

  • @anniemae62
    @anniemae62 7 лет назад +26

    Wow. What a difference. About a year ago, I was on here to listen to this song and everyone was ripping it, completely insulting the words, the message and the singer. I remember it coming out and it was so beautiful, both the message and the tune. Glad there are some others who enjoy it also.

    • @BIG_AL_ONE
      @BIG_AL_ONE 7 лет назад +1

      I came here two years ago and saw the same thing. The lesson I learned was....you really can brainwash the next generation if you hold your breath long enough. It's a selfish shit-bucket song. Alway was, always will be and time don't change nothing.
      Why do more people say good things about it today- because people are more selfish than ever.
      Me, me, me.

    • @merricat3025
      @merricat3025 2 года назад

      What did people find wrong with this song?

    • @1911Zoey
      @1911Zoey 2 года назад +3

      @@BIG_AL_ONE to me, this song will always be a cautionary tale. Read the lyrics again and you'll see that she alludes to the whole "grass is greener on the other side of the fence" at the beginning but then changes tune when she gets a dose of reality.

    • @alicekirk8629
      @alicekirk8629 2 года назад

      @Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa you said that much better than I could have. This is a song about the price of selfishness.

    • @meganchan5432
      @meganchan5432 10 месяцев назад

      What did you mean by 'everyone'? Your friends? Your colleagues? They must have been having wonderful lives!

  • @chl2327
    @chl2327 3 года назад +41

    this song always gets me and can make me cry… we rarely come across such a beautiful and deep song full of meaningful things, right? i love it partly because this isn’t just some commonplace love song. besides, she’s an amazingly talented singer!

    • @chl2327
      @chl2327 3 года назад +1

      @@timmattle4730 ive memorized all the lyrics and i know all their meanings. Im not saying that this is a love song. I mean that a commonplace song is often an ordinary love song

  • @gianmartinez993
    @gianmartinez993 4 года назад +21

    2021 i have heard my mother singing this, it was the first time ive heard her expressing what she feels. i am so happy

  • @RenataCantore
    @RenataCantore Год назад +30

    I suddenly remembered this Exquisite song today January 12, 2024. It is Eternal❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉 Thank you Charlene ❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉

    • @irishbika33
      @irishbika33 Год назад +2

      The same thing just happened to me February 3, 2024....so strange how our brains work! 😀

    • @caiogasparoto2542
      @caiogasparoto2542 10 месяцев назад

      Dia 12,meu aniversário,eu ouvindo agora eterna

  • @trag6675
    @trag6675 2 года назад +5

    Oh dear. Was about 14 when first heard this song but now really know what it is about and appreciate the words

  • @rizalinodelsocorro3209
    @rizalinodelsocorro3209 2 года назад +7

    Listened to this during my college days (70s - 80s). Still listening to this now 06 February '23. One of my favorite singers, Charlene Duncan . . . - from Lanao del Norte, Mindanao, Philippines.

  • @sirisaacnewton4985
    @sirisaacnewton4985 8 лет назад +74

    Her voice is like a melting gold...

    • @jenpeterson3712
      @jenpeterson3712 6 лет назад +4

      It is. Many many singers these days couldn't handle an amazing song like that.

  • @jimmymars619
    @jimmymars619 4 года назад +56

    The more this song has been listened,the more feeling of getting love of it becomes.What a magical this song is!

  • @wallflower1852
    @wallflower1852 3 года назад +27

    My best friend's favorite song. We're no longer close but I just remembered it. This song is timeless.
    8/17/2021 - PST

  • @user-ov8og1yy9l
    @user-ov8og1yy9l 3 года назад +8

    今も心に響く名曲✨

  • @MrDesertmike
    @MrDesertmike 5 лет назад +31

    I hadn’t heard this for decades, then it was played on the Casey Kasum top 40 replay this morning. OVER WHELMED WITH MEMORIES!! good & bad. Music is truly magical🙏🙏

    • @artfquinn
      @artfquinn 5 лет назад +3

      Same here. I hadn't heard this for at least thirty years. Then it was played on the Casey Kasum top 40 replay this morning. Had to listen again.

    • @denisepgalloway
      @denisepgalloway 5 лет назад

      It’s been a 3 day ear worm for me. Just popped in my head from out of the blue.

    • @thamsanqaclarence9360
      @thamsanqaclarence9360 4 года назад +1

      I hardly go a day without listening to this great classic and I’m only 26 years old I guess there is something wrong with me

  • @zheenemhaicaorticio684
    @zheenemhaicaorticio684 4 года назад +108

    Sept 2020...
    Charlene... omg. You still gives me chills everytime I listen to you singing this...😍😍

    • @bonniemcfarland4243
      @bonniemcfarland4243 4 года назад +2

      My very first song that I could relate to

    • @margretsmith3964
      @margretsmith3964 4 года назад +2

      Beautiful I love that song I can relate to that completly

  • @trapperjohnson261
    @trapperjohnson261 10 лет назад +55

    Easily one the most touching songs I've ever heard.

  • @curtisscarmon3267
    @curtisscarmon3267 2 года назад +35

    Music of the 70's always has good messages

  • @CarlosGonzalez-yv1tg
    @CarlosGonzalez-yv1tg 6 лет назад +16

    She had one of the most beautiful voices I've ever heard

  • @ivywang3806
    @ivywang3806 5 лет назад +15

    Who is watching this October 2019? It really describes my current life that I am tried of: a mother with two under two, one of whom has special needs. Each time I want run away of the life i play this song and it saved my life and marriage.

    • @jovie1981
      @jovie1981 5 лет назад +1

      Ivy Wang Be strong for your kids🙏

    • @SkepticalPickle
      @SkepticalPickle 5 лет назад

      Ivy Wang for activity purposes that’s why I’m here hehehe ,

    • @alexandramassey9258
      @alexandramassey9258 5 лет назад

      Ivy. You're not on your own sweetheart. Try your best to be strong,. You'll get passed this. Thinking of you.

    • @waluyawaluya9285
      @waluyawaluya9285 5 лет назад

      May you be blessed by strength, passion & love @Ivy Wang.

  • @AirborneAirAssault6565
    @AirborneAirAssault6565 2 года назад +18

    The feelings, love and pain in this song is touching! This song is a gift from God. The voice, lyrics and music!

    • @AirborneAirAssault6565
      @AirborneAirAssault6565 2 года назад +3

      WOW! Charlene Marilynn Oliver, better known mononymously as Charlene, is an American easy-listening and R&B singer best known for the song "I've Never Been to Me", which, initially being a commercial flop upon its original release in 1977, became a worldwide hit upon a re-release in 1982 and has remained an enduring adult contemporary music staple. Charlene is also a songwriter, record producer and author.

  • @agathaf.1350
    @agathaf.1350 2 месяца назад +1

    My mom has been searching for this music for so long, then she told me one phrase of the chorus, now I found this music to her. She cried a lot when I played.

  • @JdeffreyBullard
    @JdeffreyBullard Год назад +7

    Another song words are not enough ❤❤❤

  • @joeybehr
    @joeybehr 9 лет назад +48

    The message is pretty clear, the grass is not always greener on the other side of the fence and when men and women get a clue, it might be too late for them. a relationship takes work and sometimes neither party want to work at it. My grandparents were married over 80 years and my grand mother was hit and she hit back and she was a true inspiration to me in my life and my parents were married 57 years another inspiration.

  • @ritchekilnit8575
    @ritchekilnit8575 7 лет назад +58

    I was so moved the first time I heard this song.All I can think of are those women who are force into selling their body and souls to survive or to be able to buy everything that they want..
    I may not be one of them but I always get emotional and cry whenever i sing this song..I feel her pain and regrets..how she enjoy life to the fullest being with the rich and famous ,sex and abortions,then later on she realized everything was a lie,she was not truly happy and regreted all her actions.how she wished someone had talk to her
    out of it.
    I applaud whoever wrote this song.Its so relatable especially now that we all are so into material things that we tend to ignore what really matters most__our family and lovedones

    • @BIG_AL_ONE
      @BIG_AL_ONE 7 лет назад

      Fucking gross.

    • @hirayamanawari4638
      @hirayamanawari4638 6 лет назад

      Tama jud ka bebe👍😊😊😊

    • @kenlie88
      @kenlie88 4 года назад +1

      sweetie, you are too judgmental to others' life. A lot of peeps cherished their colourful past life too just in case you don't know bec you never been to.

  • @NewFutureFantasy
    @NewFutureFantasy 5 месяцев назад +5

    I loved this song as a child. Now I listen to it and understand so much more. What a beautiful, profound song.

  • @ANDCFC95
    @ANDCFC95 4 месяца назад +8

    I will never understand why so many people hate this song

  • @helenc4228
    @helenc4228 Год назад +9

    There is sooooo much wisdom in these lyrics!

  • @SoloPilot6
    @SoloPilot6 Год назад +4

    The re-release, with the spoken bridge added, pulled this up out of the run-of-the-mill and made it a classic.

  • @carlosa.sanchez896
    @carlosa.sanchez896 5 лет назад +4

    I had the good fortune to meet Charlene and her terrific husband, Geoff, in L.A. back in 1985, through a mutual friend who grew up with her in AL. Terrific lady, very talented, yet not full of herself. There are great messages in this song, i.e. pro life and avoiding bad choices people make when trying to be cool or fit in.

    • @meganchan5432
      @meganchan5432 10 месяцев назад

      'People who are full of themselves'? I guess you aren't a fan of 'America' s Got Talents'. I quit watching that for ages ago.

  • @selah7779
    @selah7779 10 месяцев назад +10

    😔 😢 ...What a song. Hopefully many young girls, ladies and women will hear this song👍

  • @florencehammond7899
    @florencehammond7899 8 лет назад +14

    this song says so much. I miss me but sometimes not sure who ME is. It is my birthday, today thanking god for another year of life, love and support. x

  • @kelbylee
    @kelbylee Год назад +1

    i was like 2 when this was on the radio, but "i've been to paradise (but i've never been to me)" has been my tag line on all social media for probably 20 years.

  • @angelswings7024
    @angelswings7024 7 лет назад +18

    One of the most beautiful songs ever recorded in living memory. Thank you, Charlene. 🤓💓🎙🎼🎵🎶

  • @zeeagustinead2079
    @zeeagustinead2079 4 года назад +11

    Im crying right now this song is for me and my mother... I can relate to this song... When I live our of the country far away from my mom everytime I hear this song I remember her... My mom is still alive. I love her so much she may not be perfect but she's great in so many ways. Still listening May 10, 2020 @9:56pm . Thank You for this song 😥🙏🏽🧡

  • @jasonramsingh9947
    @jasonramsingh9947 10 месяцев назад +10

    I was eight years old when I first heard this song in 1982 and they would play it on the radio everyday. Loved the music and melody and when I was old enough to understand the meaning it became even more powerful. A true classic!

  • @samanthacroker3933
    @samanthacroker3933 3 года назад +52

    Called my daughter Charlene after this song .. sadly she died at 11 days old... Today Is an anniversary.. 9th June ... Miss my angel ❤️

  • @novarich007
    @novarich007 8 лет назад +88

    One of the greatest songs ever written. Great music, lyrics of wisdom.

  • @michelle88960
    @michelle88960 6 лет назад +6

    It's only now I understand this song and the meaning of it. I married a great guy when I was 23. But I wanted more than the day to day, work, and weekends out in the pub. I left, and as this song says I've seen things and experienced things a woman isn't supposed to see. If I could go back I would in a heartbeat.

  • @susanrodgers9222
    @susanrodgers9222 3 года назад +17

    Even when I was a child this song has reminded of my mom. She's 83 now and it still fits her.

  • @gutcheeee
    @gutcheeee 3 месяца назад +3

    Finally! After a decade of listening to this song on radio i finally found it! Ima cry

  • @auntpeggyz
    @auntpeggyz 9 лет назад +77

    This song touched my heart the first time I heard it, so many years ago. I am thrilled to have found it, once again!

    • @lamquangthuan
      @lamquangthuan 9 лет назад +3

      +Peggy Schwarzmer I think this is the 1000s-th times I hear this song, and the feeling is still the same! This is my most favourite song EVER!

    • @Ms37cookies
      @Ms37cookies 5 лет назад

      I'm with you Peggy. I forgot all about this song, but I totally identify & am so glad to have found it again ❤️❤️

  • @adarna12
    @adarna12 Год назад +9

    It’s so amazing how much time music composers spend to complete a song in the 70’s and 80’$. They wrote stories ❤. Songs today are composed of two lines sung repeatedly for three to four minutes to complete an album. 😮

    • @adarna12
      @adarna12 Год назад

      ❤ the 70’s and 80’s music.

  • @tirsojrtuya7932
    @tirsojrtuya7932 4 года назад +186

    covid-19 pandemic time now..
    Who's still listening right now?
    May 24,2020"👌

  • @jakelibot9129
    @jakelibot9129 7 месяцев назад +2

    Old song that never dies. Every time I listen to it, I always having a flashback of my childhood as it is always played before back in the late 90s to early 2000s. Great song with a story on it, that future generation may look up to it.

  • @MaryinOhio
    @MaryinOhio 4 года назад +6

    I remember this song when it first came out and always wondered what happened to this great singer. Just sitting around during the pandemic, listening to the old songs which are some of the best. Song and singer are two of the best. Can’t understand why Charlene never made it to the top where she deserved to be.

    • @kerencoe551
      @kerencoe551 4 года назад +1

      Charlene was signed to Motown Records, but this was her only hit.

  • @aandy51x
    @aandy51x 8 лет назад +11

    This song never ages, always been one of my favourites since it first release , then as a song from Prisicilla Queen of the Desert great choice for the film. Beautiful voice from a beautiful singer

  • @kimjarrell6851
    @kimjarrell6851 4 года назад +11

    A beautiful lady. Hoping she is happy and lived a happy life. Wish I heard this song sooner

  • @jadethomas6628
    @jadethomas6628 Месяц назад

    Thanks to youtube for giving us the opportunity to watch live performances from the past.

  • @nataliesanders6304
    @nataliesanders6304 5 лет назад +12

    I love this song so much, I remember being little with my mum singing along to it on the jukebox and cleaning the house, the words/story is so touching

  • @patriciachirgwin3238
    @patriciachirgwin3238 3 года назад +120

    The first song I danced to with the man I later went on to marry in 1986. Still together now (2022)! This is a very special song to me!❤️❤️❤️

  • @KuyaMChannel
    @KuyaMChannel 3 года назад +5

    August 2021 and I still love to listen to this song... guy here from the Philippines!

  • @lindatarafox721
    @lindatarafox721 Год назад +2

    Theres a hurting world out there and not too many people can share their personal issues with anyone else, but if a simple song or an experience can change some one for a better life the so be it .Thank you for sharing.

  • @solangemaemura1475
    @solangemaemura1475 7 лет назад +8

    Se eu fechar meus olhos ..
    Vou pensar que um anjo deve ter a voz assim!....
    Charlene cantando!

  • @hunk4256
    @hunk4256 2 года назад +5

    I heard this song when i was 5 years old back in 1985. I've never been after many years one of my favorite song after many years..

  • @deborahhoward2648
    @deborahhoward2648 Год назад +13

    This song has a lot to it....seriously.

  • @dimazhewarlela
    @dimazhewarlela Год назад +1

    I love this song. The first time i saw the singer now in april 2023. I heard this song when i was in my 6th grade back in 1980. My first kid love😄. Now i am 56 years 😅.. Thanks for posting this. 🙏

  • @Karen...Grunberg
    @Karen...Grunberg 8 лет назад +23

    I have not heard this song in many, many years. I love it!

  • @margaomadel2798
    @margaomadel2798 2 года назад +10

    this song bring tears to my eyes as the lyrics perfectly fit to my situation, been around the world, see the different paradise, but i never been to me😔😔

    • @PatriciaEnright
      @PatriciaEnright 4 месяца назад

      Definitely know what you mean. I heard this first at 20....all these years on it moves me. Wasted years😔

  • @HappyHappy-ht2tx
    @HappyHappy-ht2tx 4 года назад +7

    I was not born when this song was released, but I love it very much.

  • @jamespirko2971
    @jamespirko2971 Год назад +2

    This is a song of regret, realization, and Redemption.
    I first heard it on a local radio station in Tampa Florida during the Summer of 1976. This was when the "Free Love" era of the 1960s gave way to to the harsh reality of the 1970s inflationary recession.
    Years later I was pleasantly surprised to hear it on a "Top Forty" radio station in 1982. At that time, a young DJ was mocking these lyrics, with arrogant derision.
    Listen to these lyrics with the Wisdom and Forgiveness of Jesus of Nazareth in your heart.
    Watch for those among us who have been led astray into the "fast and easy" life, and are finding their way back. Treat them with Grace and kindness, as Christ would have done.

  • @ralphpick7444
    @ralphpick7444 4 года назад +6

    The first time I heard this song is when I was painting my kitchen in 1982. It has been a favorite of mine ever since.