Betcha By Golly, Wow

Looking at a haunting ballad from the 1970s

This gem, with lyrics from Linda Creed and music by Thom Bell, was originally released by Connie Stevens in October, 1970 as “Keep Growing Strong.” Few people remember Connie’s version, especially since the definitive cover and bona fide hit version was performed by the Stylistics. That single, released in February, 1972, peaked at number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, and was certified Gold.

Since 1972, the song has been recorded dozens of times, with notable vocal versions by Prince (1996) and Aaron Neville (1993). Probably the finest collaboration of Creed and Bell, the song features Creed’s extravagant lyrics with Bell’s beautiful melody—and everything just works.

Creed’s lyrics begin in a fantasy world:

There's a spark of magic in your eyes
Candyland appears each time you smile
Never thought that fairy tales came true
But they come true when I'm near you
You're a genie in disguise
Full of wonder and surprise

The chorus follows, beginning with the strangely anachronistic title, followed by seemingly over-the-top hyper-romantic sentiments:

And betcha by golly, wow
You're the one that I've been waiting for forever
And ever will my love for you keep growin' strong
Keep growin' strong

Now, Creed looks to the heavens, and natural phenomena:

If I could I'd catch a falling star
To shine on you so I'll know where you are
Order rainbows in your favorite shade
To show I love you, thinking of you
Write your name across the sky
Anything you ask I'll try, 'cause…

And, back to the chorus, which repeats:

Betcha by golly, wow
You're the one that I've been waiting for forever
And ever will my love for you keep growin' strong
Keep growin' strong

Linda Creed would die at only age 37 of breast cancer in 1986, being diagnosed nine years earlier with the disease. For this hit, at least, she was young and in good health.

While a whole lot has changed in the nearly 52 years since this song was first introduced, most music fans can still appreciate a sweet and sentimental love song. And one of those fans is Pat Metheny, whose solo acoustic guitar version from 2011 somehow renders Bell’s melody even more stunningly gorgeous.

As they say, it all starts with the song.

[Lyrics quoted as “fair use,” as is the record jacket image]