Ben E. King – “Don’t Play That Song (You Lied)” (1962)

About The Song

Ben E. King’s “Don’t Play That Song (You Lied),” released in 1962, is a soulful and emotionally charged R&B ballad that showcases King’s powerful vocals and heartfelt delivery. Co-written by Ahmet Ertegun and Betty Nelson, the song’s poignant lyrics and stirring melody have made it a timeless classic in the realm of soul music.

With his soulful voice and impassioned performance, King sings of heartbreak and betrayal in “Don’t Play That Song (You Lied).” The song’s emotive lyrics and soul-stirring instrumentation capture the pain and longing of lost love, resonating deeply with listeners.

Upon its release, “Don’t Play That Song (You Lied)” became a major hit, earning widespread acclaim for its emotional depth and King’s remarkable vocal talent. Its success helped to solidify King’s status as one of the leading voices in R&B music, and the song remains a cherished favorite among fans of soul and classic rhythm and blues.

As we revisit “Don’t Play That Song (You Lied),” we celebrate Ben E. King’s enduring legacy and the lasting impact of this iconic song. Its timeless message of heartache and resilience continues to resonate with audiences, reminding us of the power of music to express the depth of human emotion.

Video

Lyric

Don’t play it no more
Don’t play it no more
Don’t play it no more
No, no, no, no, no, no, no

Don’t play that song for me
It brings back memories
Of days that I once knew
The days that I spent with you

Oh no, don’t let it play
It fills my heart with pain
Please stop it right away
I remember just what it said

It said, (“Darling, I love you”) You know that you lied
(“Darling, I love you”) You know that you lied
(“Darling, I love you”) You know that you lied
(Hoo) You lied (hoo) You lied, lied, lied, lied

Remember on our first date?
You kissed me and you walked away
You were only seventeen
I never thought you’d act so mean

But baby, you told me you loved me
You told me you cared
You said, “I’ll go with you darlin’
Almost anywhere.” but baby you know that

(“Darling, I love you”) You know that you lied
(“Darling, I love you”) You know that you lied
(“Darling, I love you”) You know that you lied
(Hoo) You lied (hoo) You lied, lied, lied, lied

Don’t play it no more
Don’t play it no more
Stop it baby
No, no, no, no, no, no, no

Don’t play it no more
Baby please, don’t play it baby
Don’t play it no more
No, no, no, no, no, no, stop it, baby

(“Darling, I love you”) You know that you lied
(“Darling, I love you”) You know that you lied
(“Darling, I love you”) Yes baby, you lied