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.
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..
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.
+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
+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.
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' ❤
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.
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. 🙏
@@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. 🤷🏻♀️
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.
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
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...
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.
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,"
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,
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
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?)
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.
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.) 😅
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 ❤
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 😜!
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.
@@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!
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!
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!"
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
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.
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.
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!
@@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
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🙏🙏
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.
I sang this song at a competition. I was barely out of my teens, the judge asked if I knew what the song meant. I didn’t quite understand the questioning, all I knew I loved the music, I nailed it. Yes I did win the competition however, Years later I had a good laugh…. “ I’ve been to paradise……😂😂… still listen and love it.
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.
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.
@@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.
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?
This song is appropriate for me now. I ve wanted freedom and I ve got it by loving me and nobody else. I ve finally come to me and its the love been looking for all my life 😢
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.
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
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.
This song never gets the just due it deserves. No one plays it, if you request it, they are like, what?, it has been on top ten worst songs ever lists and more. But you know what? It's a good song.
When this song came out I was dating a beautiful, blonde Irish chick from the Bronx who was a devout Catholic. On our 2nd date 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. Then she said: "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 vexing 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," This chick was so good looking that I gladly pretended to dislike this song henceforth.
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
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
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. 😮
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.
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
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
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
+Patrick Ritchie Well, unfortunately this is the mantra of too many women in the USA. The difference is that this singer acknowledges her shortcomings. Nowadays they just transfer from young and greedy to cougars. I'm not sure which is worse.
+Bill Browne You nailed it. I don't know which is either. Maybe it depends on if the cougars have money. Life is a balancing act. Depends on what side of the seesaw we want to sit on. Live on. You're better off without her..... and I don't even know who she is. Just been there.
Dude, this is a good song for the genre it is in..I Love MacArthur Park by Richard Harris, and trust me, i don't have to worry about getting my "man card" revoked..it's a sad song if you really listen to the words..
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 😥🙏🏽🧡
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
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.
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.
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
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.
October 13, 2019 and this song caught my ears! I'm not fan of old songs but her voice soothes my soul OMG! And this gives me a super girl power. RIP replay button mode
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.
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
He's still with you. Just talk to him....and he'll hear.
Ha ha wedding song we have a winner lol
❤
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..
It’s 2024, who’s still with me listening to this song? ❤
I can't have enough of this. Thanks Charlene ❤
✋✋✋
Beautiful
Me
Me
Back in the day when the lyrics of the songs like this linger in our hearts forever.
Those are good lyrics?
@@jersenguard Until the "you are a useless, worthless whore if you never had children part" I'd say they are not bad.
Wow! I hadn't heard this song in years. Glad I found it this evening. Will listen to it many more times...
Same! I left the same comment.
I forgot about this song, just came upon it tonight
@@poorthing- Same! It's so refreshing to hear genuine music 😊
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.
Dear robin am retired po god bless you
good 4 U everyone deserves to be with the right one
+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
+Robin g I am pleased it worked for you, but it's making me want to puke!
+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.
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' ❤
Wow ❤❤❤❤xxxx😢.
X
I'm so so sorry. Thank you do much for sharing this beautiful song about your mum. God Bless 🙏🕊
Me too😢
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.
❤🙏❤
Guys, this is music. Live singing, clear n beautiful voices, 0% scantily clad, just pure music with an angelic voice.
And we’ll done UK for taking it to number one where it belonged.
Um, Top of the Pops was never live.
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.
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. 🙏
YOLO
Praise God for bounce back to the more clearer and peaceful
❤🙏❤
so you replaced all the partying with religion
@@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. 🤷🏻♀️
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.
My mam used to sing this too
Woa man, that's dope
Yeap you will do it !!!!💪💪💪💪👍👍👍
Thank you guuuuys! I don't know who you are but, I'll remember this for my entire life.
Your mom must have a very difficult life. 💗💗
The lyrics, the tune, the voice... I swear, this song is perfect.
Brilliant I remember it just couldn't say who sung it.🥰
The song was written specifically for her.
Agreed
This song was a great gift from the god. The voice, the lyric was awsome.
Hmmm.......
If it were not for the movie Priscilla Queen Of The Desert I would have never known about this fantastic song !
I remember hearing this as a kid, really got to me and I've never forgotten it.
Beautifully sung
Haunting !! I my listen to it 20+ times a day!
Yeah...it was my paternal aunt's favourite song back when I was 12/13 :'-)
Same here love it ever since
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
@@lyncbear v4vv 4vv v v vc. Vc. Vc. Vc. Vcvv4. Vcvvvv vvvv 4 4 v
I've forgotten about this song until just now. Thank you for this sweet little gem from the past.
❤🙏❤
Who else is still listening to this in 2021?
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...
Sweetnotes from the Philippines does a wonderful version. 3:38
tagos na tagos.nakaka iyak.
I live in the Philippines too and yes I hear it on the radio ❤❤
I remember - they have great taste in music there.
Great singers coming from the Philippines.
I just meet Charlene today. She is absolutely amazing and humble.
Definitely was a honor!!😊
Wow-Thats Awesome-What A Beautiful Voice She Has
James Allen Anything for a like, huh.
What the hell do you know Joe Smoe?
@@joesmoe8983 You're such a hateful troll. You must be a miserable person to bash someone who experienced something nice.
This is the worst most poxy song of all time ^spew*
At 13, I was mesmerized by this song and her voice. Now as a 60-year-old grandfather, it still touches my soul.
😔 😢 ...What a song. Hopefully many young girls, ladies and women will hear this song👍
She sings a song of all of her regrets in life. We can all learn from her words.
I remember when this song was released. Melancholic, lyrics beautifully sung with excellent arrangements. Evokes many memories of life.
The Captain's regrets
yes darlinks
It doesn't seem that she has regrets just a realization for her next step.
@@kathytanner9191to be laid to rest as a wealthy spinster
I love the depth of honesty and authenticity of this song. We are always being everything else but our true selves
Ask me how I know you're gay
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.
Nope Eli May, I'm just being my true self. I'm sure Anthony would approve.
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,"
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,
She should have had many more hits she has a beautiful voice
Amen
Her voice is AWFUL and has been since 2000.
It aint easy coming down .Another beautiful song by Charlene Duncan
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.
This was her message from Souce.
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
At least she's been to paradise, most of us have not. No regrets
@@andriesliebenberg4734 Such a confusing statement...
Amen Katie honey. I love you.
❤
A timeless song, with a real message that proper love of self is necessity in order to others truly.
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?)
Called my daughter Charlene after this song .. sadly she died at 11 days old... Today Is an anniversary.. 9th June ... Miss my angel ❤️
My sympathy on your loss.
@@jamesfersch9469 thankyou 🙏
My heart aches for you
So Very Sorry For Your Loss! 🙏
I suddenly remembered this Exquisite song today January 12, 2024. It is Eternal❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉 Thank you Charlene ❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉
The same thing just happened to me February 3, 2024....so strange how our brains work! 😀
Dia 12,meu aniversário,eu ouvindo agora eterna
Unique. Brave lyrics. Astonishing
For its time....yeah. I was only a kid when this song came out but I can tell it was probably highly controversial
I think the meaning and honesty is still relevant and counter to the hedonistic USA culture
The lyrics are so profound. I love this song.
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.
Stay strong and keep making memories together… best wishes from Ireland 🇮🇪
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.) 😅
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 ❤
This song is not just a song, with it's lyrics and how majestically it's sung it's a work of ART!
I'm listening in 2024 and still stunned with the message 😉
It real as rain and sun peace friend
She screwed Kings 👑
I was a 10 year old singing this song 😮 but a great song nonetheless
What is the message in the song? I can't figure it out.
This song brings back some beautiful memories for me. I just had to listen one more time.
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 😜!
Thank God!! I'm on the other side of the story! I've been to Paradise but am alone at 44!! You missed nothing!
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.
❤️🤗
Faye honey, I love you. God bless you.
@@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!
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!
You are so right....
80s was the decade....
music.ua-cam.com/video/4FmjBUNvD74/v-deo.html&feature=share
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!"
@@pretzelbucket Very profound my Friend, I just love the music.
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
今も心に響く名曲✨
This is one of my all time favorite songs.. she has the voice of an angel. :)
Oh yes
She is so graceful. Her movements, her voice, everything! Not everyone could sing this song
Im thinking Olivia Newton-John would come close
This is one of the most deeply moving songs I've ever heard.
Not ashamed to say I'm 44 and I have always liked this song.
Oh gosh, her voice is so soothing. She sings beautifully live.
She’s sings that beautifully live. Better than the normal version! A wonderful song, I love it.
...Linda,linda💗!!...
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!❤️❤️❤️
Hi Patricia
Congratulation keep on going, all the best for you 2!
What is song about
Congratulations. Where are you from?
@@barbaraoconnor8604
SEPTEMBER 06 2023
1:18am Philippine time
Thank you for your music
My best friend's favorite song. We're no longer close but I just remembered it. This song is timeless.
8/17/2021 - PST
I loved this song as a child. Now I listen to it and understand so much more. What a beautiful, profound song.
Sept 2020...
Charlene... omg. You still gives me chills everytime I listen to you singing this...😍😍
My very first song that I could relate to
Beautiful I love that song I can relate to that completly
I will never understand why so many people hate this song
Music of the 70's always has good messages
covid-19 pandemic time now..
Who's still listening right now?
May 24,2020"👌
We are 😇
Me
Me3
November 20th. Lockdown again, listening again 😀
It's Jan 18, 2021 MLK day and I'm listening.
She had one of the most beautiful voices I've ever heard
I was in 2nd grade when this came out. About to turn 48 next month and I STILL love this song.
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.
2021 i have heard my mother singing this, it was the first time ive heard her expressing what she feels. i am so happy
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.
Ivy Wang Be strong for your kids🙏
Ivy Wang for activity purposes that’s why I’m here hehehe ,
Ivy. You're not on your own sweetheart. Try your best to be strong,. You'll get passed this. Thinking of you.
May you be blessed by strength, passion & love @Ivy Wang.
August 2021 and I still love to listen to this song... guy here from the Philippines!
Oh dear. Was about 14 when first heard this song but now really know what it is about and appreciate the words
Easily one the most touching songs I've ever heard.
TRAPPER JOHNSON 😘😘😘
TRAPPER JOHNSON true
YOU ARE FOINE!
Charlene has an angel voice
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!
@@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
Her voice is like a melting gold...
It is. Many many singers these days couldn't handle an amazing song like that.
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.
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🙏🙏
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.
It’s been a 3 day ear worm for me. Just popped in my head from out of the blue.
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
Im 14 and these are my type of songs ❤️❤️ better than what we have today
Same
Check out "The Carpenters" Bianca and Zeneth. If you love this type of song you'll love Karen Carpenter.
bianca younis Well, your heads and shoulders beyond your peers. Perhaps you have an old soul, Bianca ;-)
im guy but i love to hear this song im finding its tittle for a decade
Your spirit responds. Most of what is produced today is soulless. Reflecting a soulless society...
2020: still listening to this song
me fromJapan.
❤
Me too. I love this song. It opens my heart.
Indonesia
Im still travelling oout of my country I feel what this song it is
The feelings, love and pain in this song is touching! This song is a gift from God. The voice, lyrics and music!
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.
The more this song has been listened,the more feeling of getting love of it becomes.What a magical this song is!
One of the greatest songs ever written. Great music, lyrics of wisdom.
You are correct
novarich007 m
A beautiful lady. Hoping she is happy and lived a happy life. Wish I heard this song sooner
I sang this song at a competition. I was barely out of my teens, the judge asked if I knew what the song meant. I didn’t quite understand the questioning, all I knew I loved the music, I nailed it. Yes I did win the competition however, Years later I had a good laugh…. “ I’ve been to paradise……😂😂… still listen and love it.
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.
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.
What did people find wrong with this song?
@@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.
@Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa you said that much better than I could have. This is a song about the price of selfishness.
What did you mean by 'everyone'? Your friends? Your colleagues? They must have been having wonderful lives!
Even when I was a child this song has reminded of my mom. She's 83 now and it still fits her.
Hello Susan
How are you doing today?
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?
interesting darlinks
This song is appropriate for me now. I ve wanted freedom and I ve got it by loving me and nobody else.
I ve finally come to me and its the love been looking for all my life 😢
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.
'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.
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
Fucking gross.
Tama jud ka bebe👍😊😊😊
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.
This song never gets the just due it deserves.
No one plays it, if you request it, they are like, what?, it has been on top ten worst songs ever lists and more.
But you know what?
It's a good song.
I agree. I can hear it now.
Absolutely.
When this song came out I was dating a beautiful, blonde Irish chick from the Bronx who was a devout Catholic. On our 2nd date 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. Then she said: "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 vexing 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," This chick was so good looking that I gladly pretended to dislike this song henceforth.
it did seem like an anti abortion song even 35 years ago in 1982.
sure did and still is..
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
wow, I haven't heard this song in over 35 years!!! Still know all of the words!
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
One of the most beautiful songs ever recorded in living memory. Thank you, Charlene. 🤓💓🎙🎼🎵🎶
This song touched my heart the first time I heard it, so many years ago. I am thrilled to have found it, once again!
+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!
I'm with you Peggy. I forgot all about this song, but I totally identify & am so glad to have found it again ❤️❤️
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. 😮
❤ the 70’s and 80’s music.
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.
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
There is sooooo much wisdom in these lyrics!
Hello Helen
How are you doing today?
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
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
I'm a man and I've tears in my eyes..thank God I'm human
+Patrick Ritchie Well, unfortunately this is the mantra of too many women in the USA. The difference is that this singer acknowledges her shortcomings. Nowadays they just transfer from young and greedy to cougars. I'm not sure which is worse.
+Bill Browne You nailed it. I don't know which is either. Maybe it depends on if the cougars have money. Life is a balancing act. Depends on what side of the seesaw we want to sit on. Live on. You're better off without her..... and I don't even know who she is. Just been there.
Not on your own mate
Are you sure it's not just the sand in your mangina?
Dude, this is a good song for the genre it is in..I Love MacArthur Park by Richard Harris, and trust me, i don't have to worry about getting my "man card" revoked..it's a sad song if you really listen to the words..
Amazing song composed ! Such lyrics are rare these days ! 43 years on !
THIS SONG NEEDS TO COME BACK so many ladies going through horrible circumstances, get out now and reclaim You❤
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..
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 😥🙏🏽🧡
Oh holy fuck !
Hey stranger. You have a good taste in music. Have a happy day!
Thanks to youtube for giving us the opportunity to watch live performances from the past.
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
I was not born when this song was released, but I love it very much.
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.
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.
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
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.
Charlene was signed to Motown Records, but this was her only hit.
October 13, 2019 and this song caught my ears! I'm not fan of old songs but her voice soothes my soul OMG! And this gives me a super girl power. RIP replay button mode
I just want to thank you for such a nice song I listened when I was a Japanese high school student
Sending love right back, a smile on the face is a sign that the heart is at home. did you attend any concert of the gem live?
@@gbtyresinc no, I wish I have. I really want!
@E M I was privileged tobget a backstage moment with the gem at Nashville I felt blessed though
Michaelferriter05