Can Someone Please Explain “The Righteous Brothers” to Me?

They had a few classic hits but who needs to listen to their Ray Charles covers when the originals are right there?

Came from early 1960s Orange County, California. Living the dream.

What’s to explain? They were a singing act.

They were popular. They had hit records. Then they didn’t. Like every pop act ever. What else is it ever?

Lovely, clear voices with a pleasant contrast, masculine, singing with unabashed emotion. "You've Lost That Loving Feeling" remains a great song at 50+ years.

What's interesting is that Bill Medley actually produced "Unchained Melody." It was originally the b-side but when it took off and became the hot track, Phil Spector slapped his name on it as producer for subsequent pressings. That no doubt hastened the Righteous Brothers' departure from the label.

The epitome of what was called "blue-eyed soul."

"You've Lost That Lovin' Feeling" was featured in "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical." It was written by King's friendly competition Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil.

They were very good.

Swing lowwww

Unchained Melody was an anthem for Vietnam soldiers.

“And time can do so much - Are you still mine?”

They were brothers, and they sang, OP.

That will be $50, please.

They weren't brothers, dear.

In 2003 Bobby Hatfield (the little blond one) dropped dead in his hotel room from a cocaine induced heart attack. They found him just before he and Bill Medley were to go on stage to perform. 63 years old and still doing the nose candy. A sad ending for such a great talent.

Bill Medley is almost 80 years old and still belting 'em out. He worked as a solo for many years until he brought the old act back with a new partner.

If there was ever a name that sounded like a stage name for a singer it's "Bill Medley". But that's really his name.

He didn't sound so hot on the duet from Darlene Love's album. That was about five years ago.

In 1976 Bill Medleys first wife was raped and strangled to death with her panty hose, at their Hermosa Beach home.

Years ago in law school we frequented this diner/bar called Palsgrafs near Southwestern Law School.

This guy in my class was an almost look alike to the “talker” righteous brother. And he could sing. Yes, he used to sing that lovin freling....

Ah.,,sweet carefree youth when I could still dream and drink..,now I can only dream

I wonder if they split the royalties from "Unchained Melody" and "Ebb Tide" since Bobby Hatfield did all the vocals.

Strange how Bobby found a new Righteous Brother so soon after he and Medley split. I guess he couldn't get solo gigs, whereas Medley also produced as a side career to performing.

Bobby and Fake Bill.