"Tell Him" sung by Haley Scarnato, inspired by Linda Ronstadt, and in the tradition of Barbara Reid

Last night, Haley Scarnato sang a terrific version of "Tell Him" on American Idol. Ryan Seacrest said it was originally sung by Billie Davis in 1963. In fact, Davis did the British invasion version. But, it was originally sung by the Exciters, with a very young Barbara Reid leading the way for the black female vocal groups to come in those 1960s. Scarnato's version is much closer to Reid's than to Davis's. But, the rendition that most apparently inspired her is the great Linda Ronstadt's, maybe the best version and vocal yet.

Below is Haley Scarnato singing "Tell Him", followed by the full lyrics by Bert Berns, followed by Linda Ronstsadt, followed by the Exciters.


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by Haley Scarnato





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written by Bert Berns a.k.a Bert Russell
© 1962 Screen Gems-EMI Music Inc (BMI)


Tell Him


I know something about love
You gotta want it bad
If that guy's got into your blood
Go out and get him
If you want him to be
The very part of you
Makes you want to breathe
Here's the thing to do

Tell him that you're never gonna leave him
Tell him that you're always gonna love him
Tell him tell him tell him tell him right now

I know something about love
You gotta show him
And make him see the moon up above
Go out and get him
If you want him to be
Always by your side
If you want him to
Only think of you

Tell him that you're never gonna leave him
Tell him that you're always gonna love him
Tell him tell him tell him tell him right now

Ever since the world began
It's been that way for men
And women were created
To make love their destiny
Then why should true love be
So complicated oh

I know something about love
You've gotta take him
And show him what the world is made of
One kiss could prove it

If you want him to be
Always by your side
Take his hand tonight
Swallow your foolish pride

Tell him that you're never gonna leave him
Tell him that you're always gonna love him
Tell him tell him tell him tell him right now


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by Linda Ronstadt





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by The Exciters




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