The song you’re talking about is “Unchained Melody.” It was originally recorded in 1955 by Todd Duncan for the prison film Unchained. Though the song began as a movie soundtrack piece, it quickly took on a life of its own, with multiple artists covering it in the years that followed. Its haunting melody and longing lyrics struck a deep chord, earning it a place among the greatest songs ever written.
A decade later, in 1965, The Righteous Brothers recorded what would become the most famous version. Bobby Hatfield’s soaring vocals, paired with Phil Spector’s lush production, turned it into an all-time classic. The emotional power of their rendition elevated the song from a lovely standard to a breathtaking anthem of love and longing.
Even today, “Unchained Melody” continues to resonate. Whether playing at weddings or echoing in nostalgic films like Ghost (1990), its timeless quality never fades. Watching the video—especially of The Righteous Brothers performing it live—still sends chills down the spine and proves why this song is forever etched in music history.