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

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  • Опубліковано 4 вер 2011
  • Note: Click "Show More" for lyrics, and see my UA-cam 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...

КОМЕНТАРІ • 3,8 тис.

  • @user-xs1eq5ou7e
    @user-xs1eq5ou7e 7 місяців тому +354

    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 5 місяців тому +11

      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 4 місяці тому +13

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

    • @DerhamPaul-vo8fr
      @DerhamPaul-vo8fr 4 місяці тому +5

      Ha ha wedding song we have a winner lol

    • @marielnaifesoriano4046
      @marielnaifesoriano4046 4 місяці тому +1

    • @marktestrow2714
      @marktestrow2714 3 місяці тому +2

      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..

  • @mamamia5556
    @mamamia5556 3 місяці тому +60

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

    • @richardplume3212
      @richardplume3212 2 місяці тому

      It real as rain and sun peace friend

    • @joejaydee
      @joejaydee 2 місяці тому

      She screwed Kings 👑

  • @rebecajohnston1135
    @rebecajohnston1135 Рік тому +133

    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 4 місяці тому

      YOLO

    • @alsolt_0410
      @alsolt_0410 3 місяці тому

      Praise God for bounce back to the more clearer and peaceful

    • @marktonge4225
      @marktonge4225 Місяць тому

      ❤🙏❤

    • @BillDerBerg
      @BillDerBerg 20 годин тому

      so you replaced all the partying with religion

  • @maginoongmagmamanok1300
    @maginoongmagmamanok1300 3 місяці тому +48

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

  • @roseyk7677
    @roseyk7677 3 місяці тому +59

    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 2 місяці тому +3

      Wow ❤❤❤❤xxxx😢.
      X

    • @ashleywalker1411
      @ashleywalker1411 2 місяці тому +3

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

    • @fauzianalwoga1002
      @fauzianalwoga1002 2 місяці тому +3

      Me too😢

    • @ericab9050
      @ericab9050 Місяць тому +1

      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 Місяць тому

      ❤🙏❤

  • @pdmrgm
    @pdmrgm 8 років тому +3346

    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 років тому +34

      Dear robin am retired po god bless you

    • @thomasponzio8345
      @thomasponzio8345 8 років тому +45

      good 4 U everyone deserves to be with the right one

    • @loosewheels1000
      @loosewheels1000 8 років тому +48

      +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 років тому +22

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

    • @transcubadam
      @transcubadam 8 років тому +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.

  • @user-jd9ok8gj7u
    @user-jd9ok8gj7u 3 місяці тому +9

    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 21 день тому

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

    • @lamibai515
      @lamibai515 13 днів тому

      tagos na tagos.nakaka iyak.

  • @rgrader3691
    @rgrader3691 5 місяців тому +54

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

    • @poorthing
      @poorthing 3 місяці тому +1

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

    • @yumisage
      @yumisage 3 місяці тому

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

  • @JaneeceFromMontana
    @JaneeceFromMontana Рік тому +123

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

    • @kenneththompson8933
      @kenneththompson8933 10 місяців тому +8

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

    • @jenjen3040
      @jenjen3040 10 місяців тому +3

      The Captain's regrets

    • @margarita8442
      @margarita8442 5 місяців тому +1

      yes darlinks

  • @alayzagade4965
    @alayzagade4965 5 років тому +407

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

    • @dawnhunt7004
      @dawnhunt7004 2 роки тому +8

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

    • @kayj2093
      @kayj2093 2 роки тому +6

      The song was written specifically for her.

    • @Anonim-bi1rj
      @Anonim-bi1rj Рік тому +3

      Agreed

    • @umyatthu1757
      @umyatthu1757 Рік тому +4

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

    • @irw4350
      @irw4350 5 місяців тому

      Hmmm.......

  • @jessieang5604
    @jessieang5604 4 місяці тому +29

    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.

  • @samanthacroker3933
    @samanthacroker3933 3 роки тому +10

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

  • @jakistuart
    @jakistuart 2 роки тому +414

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

    • @lyncbear
      @lyncbear 2 роки тому +5

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

    • @godsbelovedchild1810
      @godsbelovedchild1810 2 роки тому +3

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

    • @sheldonvee7000
      @sheldonvee7000 2 роки тому +4

      Same here love it ever since

    • @arlenesevetar8214
      @arlenesevetar8214 Рік тому

      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 Рік тому

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

  • @jarvislee2003
    @jarvislee2003 4 місяці тому +41

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

    • @BillBiggs1
      @BillBiggs1 3 місяці тому +3

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

  • @rickwolfe8560
    @rickwolfe8560 3 роки тому +246

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

    • @anthonyagudo208
      @anthonyagudo208 2 роки тому +15

      Amen

    • @loreleigoldman2460
      @loreleigoldman2460 Рік тому

      Her voice is AWFUL and has been since 2000.

    • @kaok75-mc1hx
      @kaok75-mc1hx 3 місяці тому +1

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

    • @roniebiando
      @roniebiando 3 місяці тому

      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 2 місяці тому

      This was her message from Souce.

  • @paulandreiabayan8116
    @paulandreiabayan8116 4 роки тому +216

    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 3 роки тому +8

      My mam used to sing this too

    • @tmi_30_gilangnarendra3
      @tmi_30_gilangnarendra3 3 роки тому +2

      Woa man, that's dope

    • @paulchow4046
      @paulchow4046 3 роки тому +4

      Yeap you will do it !!!!💪💪💪💪👍👍👍

    • @paulandreiabayan8116
      @paulandreiabayan8116 3 роки тому +14

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

    • @loreleilee453
      @loreleilee453 3 роки тому +4

      Your mom must have a very difficult life. 💗💗

  • @MamallamaLinda
    @MamallamaLinda 3 місяці тому +43

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

  • @mickmcknight162
    @mickmcknight162 10 місяців тому +49

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

  • @jakelibot9129
    @jakelibot9129 18 днів тому +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.

  • @user-qg5wg9ut2o
    @user-qg5wg9ut2o 6 місяців тому +22

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

    • @irishbika33
      @irishbika33 5 місяців тому +1

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

    • @caiogasparoto2542
      @caiogasparoto2542 3 місяці тому

      Dia 12,meu aniversário,eu ouvindo agora eterna

  • @BuiltUponARock1
    @BuiltUponARock1 Рік тому +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 Рік тому +2

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

    • @meganchan5432
      @meganchan5432 3 місяці тому +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.) 😅

  • @katiesuiter4673
    @katiesuiter4673 6 років тому +158

    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 роки тому +4

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

    • @kayj2093
      @kayj2093 2 роки тому +2

      @@andriesliebenberg4734 Such a confusing statement...

    • @davidsmith893
      @davidsmith893 Рік тому +2

      Amen Katie honey. I love you.

    • @Sergidy
      @Sergidy Рік тому +2

  • @DAVEJJR
    @DAVEJJR Місяць тому +2

    I was 16 years old when I first heard this song. And as I approached 58 years old, with tears running down my cheeks.
    I realize now I’ve never been to me….
    I lived a life full of frolicking and superficiality, and those days are now far gone and only live in mind’s memories…..

  • @jasonramsingh9947
    @jasonramsingh9947 3 місяці тому +9

    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!

  • @jamesa6045
    @jamesa6045 4 роки тому +241

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

    • @prryblu
      @prryblu 4 роки тому +6

      Wow-Thats Awesome-What A Beautiful Voice She Has

    • @joesmoe8983
      @joesmoe8983 4 роки тому +3

      James Allen Anything for a like, huh.

    • @spencerdodds2207
      @spencerdodds2207 4 роки тому +9

      What the hell do you know Joe Smoe?

    • @randydraughon1460
      @randydraughon1460 4 роки тому +6

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

    • @forestgrogorror255
      @forestgrogorror255 4 роки тому +2

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

  • @khualtonsing3893
    @khualtonsing3893 3 роки тому +7

    Who else is still listening to this in 2021?

  • @janburris2773
    @janburris2773 3 роки тому +250

    The lyrics are so profound. I love this song.

  • @patriciachirgwin3238
    @patriciachirgwin3238 2 роки тому +117

    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!❤️❤️❤️

  • @faye54lin
    @faye54lin 5 років тому +71

    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 роки тому +8

      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 роки тому +10

      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 роки тому +2

      ❤️🤗

    • @davidsmith893
      @davidsmith893 Рік тому +1

      Faye honey, I love you. God bless you.

    • @fayefaye6989
      @fayefaye6989 Рік тому +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!

  • @tirsojrtuya7932
    @tirsojrtuya7932 4 роки тому +184

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

  • @curtisscarmon3267
    @curtisscarmon3267 Рік тому +32

    Music of the 70's always has good messages

  • @nevielles
    @nevielles 10 місяців тому +9

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

  • @asifyoucare
    @asifyoucare 4 роки тому +712

    2020: still listening to this song

  • @freddyleeds9779
    @freddyleeds9779 Рік тому +26

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

  • @selah7779
    @selah7779 3 місяці тому +4

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

  • @lobangqueen909
    @lobangqueen909 3 роки тому +105

    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 3 роки тому +4

      You are so right....

    • @sand9374
      @sand9374 Рік тому +2

      80s was the decade....

    • @ricardoblair6274
      @ricardoblair6274 Рік тому

      music.ua-cam.com/video/4FmjBUNvD74/v-deo.html&feature=share

    • @pretzelbucket
      @pretzelbucket Рік тому +4

      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 Рік тому +1

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

  • @trapperjohnson261
    @trapperjohnson261 10 років тому +53

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

  • @sirisaacnewton4985
    @sirisaacnewton4985 7 років тому +73

    Her voice is like a melting gold...

    • @jenpeterson3712
      @jenpeterson3712 5 років тому +4

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

  • @YhwhKhaiMostHigh
    @YhwhKhaiMostHigh 3 роки тому +81

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

  • @zheenemhaicaorticio684
    @zheenemhaicaorticio684 3 роки тому +105

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

  • @jenpeterson3712
    @jenpeterson3712 5 років тому +85

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

  • @DemandCapture
    @DemandCapture 8 років тому +371

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

    • @edisonfrisbee6345
      @edisonfrisbee6345 7 років тому +5

      Ask me how I know you're gay

    • @nottapuppy1360
      @nottapuppy1360 7 років тому +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 7 років тому

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

    • @doubleghod
      @doubleghod 7 років тому +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 7 років тому +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,

  • @deborahhoward2648
    @deborahhoward2648 11 місяців тому +11

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

  • @sirdiyreviews4148
    @sirdiyreviews4148 11 місяців тому +5

    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

  • @michelle88960
    @michelle88960 5 років тому +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.

  • @amandasmith9426
    @amandasmith9426 9 років тому +73

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

  • @martynfletcher1084
    @martynfletcher1084 3 роки тому +69

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

  • @wallflower1852
    @wallflower1852 2 роки тому +26

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

  • @CarlosGonzalez-yv1tg
    @CarlosGonzalez-yv1tg 5 років тому +16

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

  • @rubbersoul4960
    @rubbersoul4960 8 місяців тому +3

    This song is so feminine. So beautiful. The melody and the voice and pretty much everything is so perfect. It brings out the best of a woman.

  • @rosemarybelore6622
    @rosemarybelore6622 3 місяці тому +4

    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 ❤

  • @charlierichardson5578
    @charlierichardson5578 7 місяців тому +11

    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?

  • @ritchekilnit8575
    @ritchekilnit8575 7 років тому +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 6 років тому

      Fucking gross.

    • @hirayamanawari4638
      @hirayamanawari4638 5 років тому

      Tama jud ka bebe👍😊😊😊

    • @kenlie88
      @kenlie88 3 роки тому +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.

  • @hunk4256
    @hunk4256 2 роки тому +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..

  • @SoloPilot6
    @SoloPilot6 8 місяців тому +4

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

  • @Chamorean73
    @Chamorean73 3 роки тому +21

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

  • @ivywang3806
    @ivywang3806 4 роки тому +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 4 роки тому +1

      Ivy Wang Be strong for your kids🙏

    • @SkepticalPickle
      @SkepticalPickle 4 роки тому

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

    • @alexandramassey9258
      @alexandramassey9258 4 роки тому

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

    • @waluyawaluya9285
      @waluyawaluya9285 4 роки тому

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

  • @gothicmunchkin5005
    @gothicmunchkin5005 9 років тому +14

    if you don't understand this song i envy you, i did spend my life that way (no i didn't sleep with any kings or even anyone with the last name of king) but for those that lived that way it has a deep meaning and the ones that never left their home town, yes we envy them that peaceful life where they have had the same best friend since grade 2 and not since last tuesday, knowing who they trust and don't trust. those are things we never had and never will and would give up all we did have for.

    • @guitarbrad
      @guitarbrad 9 років тому +1

      gothicmunchkin This is such a beautiful explanation for this song. It explains it far better then I ever could. For those of you that want to know what this song is about - she says it here.

  • @rizalinodelsocorro3209
    @rizalinodelsocorro3209 Рік тому +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.

  • @idea1469
    @idea1469 10 місяців тому +10

    Unique. Brave lyrics. Astonishing

    • @Justice-ef9sk
      @Justice-ef9sk 10 місяців тому

      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 10 місяців тому

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

  • @MrDesertmike
    @MrDesertmike 5 років тому +30

    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 років тому +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 років тому

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

    • @thamsanqaclarence9360
      @thamsanqaclarence9360 3 роки тому +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

  • @chl2327
    @chl2327 2 роки тому +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 2 роки тому +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

  • @drgill.Hon.A.A.Thompson
    @drgill.Hon.A.A.Thompson 3 роки тому +2

    2021 it’s my number one song 🎵 I’m a mom and now a young granny and I see the sacrifice, wisdom and love there is in being called to motherhood and in being a grandmother! As much as I empathize with those childless women, we don’t know the mystery behind God not favouring their wombs. That’s God’s way!

  • @gricogary5772
    @gricogary5772 Рік тому +2

    I just a little kid riding a public transportation ( jeep ) when i 1st hear this song and i saw a woman crying while listening, since im just a kid and not good in English, so after i went home i look for a copy of the lyrics ( song hits )
    This really got a message and that woman i saw she might really feel it

  • @margaomadel2798
    @margaomadel2798 2 роки тому +9

    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😔😔

  • @kimjarrell6851
    @kimjarrell6851 4 роки тому +11

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

  • @adarna12
    @adarna12 Рік тому +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 Рік тому

      ❤ the 70’s and 80’s music.

  • @gianmartinez993
    @gianmartinez993 3 роки тому +20

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

  • @cherryhlaing5536
    @cherryhlaing5536 2 роки тому +5

    How could old generation sing a song just like talking and sing at the same time? (Dunno how to explain😂) Still love to listen this kinda golden melody.

  • @anniemae62
    @anniemae62 6 років тому +24

    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 6 років тому +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 роки тому

      What did people find wrong with this song?

    • @1911Zoey
      @1911Zoey Рік тому +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 Рік тому

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

    • @meganchan5432
      @meganchan5432 3 місяці тому

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

  • @trag6675
    @trag6675 2 роки тому +4

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

  • @jamespirko2971
    @jamespirko2971 7 місяців тому +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.

  • @richeyrich
    @richeyrich 7 років тому +22

    wow, I haven't heard this song in over 35 years!!! Still know all of the words!

    • @patrickhynes5885
      @patrickhynes5885 7 років тому

      well I grew up biking hay and milking cows in those days back in west water ford transitor radio we didnt know what they were simging about well uni medicine sugery etc etcetera ended up turning men into woman and woman into.men in london
      how life changes
      little did we no that these artists were changing everything

  • @angelswings7024
    @angelswings7024 6 років тому +18

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

  • @Daniel19927
    @Daniel19927 Рік тому +3

    First i heard this song when i was a child because my mother always sing this song and even though many struggles in our life we were still together and love each other and happily ever after

  • @junefyfe519
    @junefyfe519 Рік тому +2

    I will forever appreciate my wonderful big sister Carol/surrogate mum for being so amazing. What a very awesome, inspirational big sister she has always been to me. Carol, I don't ever think you could possibly know how much you meant to me and the positive role model you were. I truly thank you for everything you did for us all, especially your love, patience and kindness 💕 ❤ ♥ 🙏 💖 xxx

  • @florencehammond7899
    @florencehammond7899 7 років тому +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

  • @carlosa.sanchez896
    @carlosa.sanchez896 4 роки тому +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 3 місяці тому

      '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.

  • @susanrodgers9222
    @susanrodgers9222 3 роки тому +17

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

  • @HappyHappy-ht2tx
    @HappyHappy-ht2tx 4 роки тому +8

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

  • @pugwash08
    @pugwash08 9 років тому +5

    ´This is a classic...
    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´
    and...
    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
    and....
    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...
    Fair play it must be said to this well-travelled lady, methinks its family values she craves in the end after all her adventures, but great lyrics all the same...

  • @ralphpick7444
    @ralphpick7444 3 роки тому +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.

  • @AirborneAirAssault6565
    @AirborneAirAssault6565 2 роки тому +17

    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 роки тому +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.

  • @dr1204
    @dr1204 Місяць тому

    i can't fathom how she didn't have a long career. beautiful voice and song as well as looks. always loved it❤

  • @zeeagustinead2079
    @zeeagustinead2079 4 роки тому +10

    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 😥🙏🏽🧡

  • @Karen...Grunberg
    @Karen...Grunberg 8 років тому +23

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

  • @jimmymars619
    @jimmymars619 3 роки тому +56

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

  • @vjxconcur4864
    @vjxconcur4864 3 роки тому +2

    my mom used to listen to this song. everytime I heared this song it reminds me of my childhoold and a younger version of my mom. ilove this song.

  • @novarich007
    @novarich007 8 років тому +88

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

  • @ReshoketsweMthombeni
    @ReshoketsweMthombeni 6 років тому +46

    "But I wish someone had talked to me, like I wanna talk to you"...

  • @mistymckaine875
    @mistymckaine875 3 місяці тому +1

    This song saved my life because I lived it word for word x 25% to 50% ….thank you Charlene, you got me through it … I wonder if we walked the same 100 meter yachts and the same prunes and kings ❤️❤️❤️❤️

  • @user-ov8og1yy9l
    @user-ov8og1yy9l 3 роки тому +6

    今も心に響く名曲✨

  • @aandy51x
    @aandy51x 8 років тому +10

    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

  • @elyssapastor4478
    @elyssapastor4478 7 років тому +722

    Im 14 and these are my type of songs ❤️❤️ better than what we have today

    • @zenreally8385
      @zenreally8385 7 років тому +11

      Same

    • @massagesteve
      @massagesteve 7 років тому +30

      Check out "The Carpenters" Bianca and Zeneth. If you love this type of song you'll love Karen Carpenter.

    • @aquarianstar67
      @aquarianstar67 7 років тому +13

      bianca younis Well, your heads and shoulders beyond your peers. Perhaps you have an old soul, Bianca ;-)

    • @charliedevera472
      @charliedevera472 7 років тому +11

      im guy but i love to hear this song im finding its tittle for a decade

    • @hstevens7125
      @hstevens7125 7 років тому +18

      Your spirit responds. Most of what is produced today is soulless. Reflecting a soulless society...

  • @rexisles1343
    @rexisles1343 3 роки тому +12

    Beautiful, simply beautiful. Way, way, way before auto-tune ruined music.

  • @bluewave7120
    @bluewave7120 Рік тому +5

    One of the most personal unique and inspiring songs ever! ❤

  • @joeybehr
    @joeybehr 8 років тому +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.

  • @SassySuzi
    @SassySuzi 6 років тому +3

    Classic of the 80s. I am from the UK and met an American man in 1981 (we are still married lol), and in 1982 I went to America for the first time when this song was a hit. The "crying for unborn children" line played on the radio in the UK but when I went to New York that summer, it was blurred out on the radio ( on that NYC station, at least). Abortion was a hot topic in the US but always remember that whole line being silenced out of the song, then she started singing again. Definitely a time capsule of a song.

    • @emilytrott
      @emilytrott 5 років тому +1

      That's very interesting Suzy, and shows how different peoples minds work. I can't comprehend how someone could think that line referred to babies who had been aborted. Just the context of the song should make that crystal clear.

  • @alvinsimable
    @alvinsimable 4 роки тому +12

    This song is just made for her. I never hear anyone sing this song better than her.

  • @brucelang1201
    @brucelang1201 Рік тому +2

    The type of song u only have hear once and hits a nerve and asks a question no one ever really finds an answer to Brilliant.