About the song
“Living Doll” by Cliff Richard is a beloved classic that epitomizes the early days of British rock and roll. Released in 1959, this hit song became Richard’s first major success, launching his career to international stardom. Written by Lionel Bart, who would later achieve fame for his work on the musical Oliver!, “Living Doll” was originally composed as a humorous song for the film Serious Charge. However, Richard reworked it into a slow, relaxed rock-and-roll ballad, which immediately captivated audiences with its catchy tune and youthful charm.
Appearing on the album Cliff Sings, “Living Doll” quickly became a chart-topping sensation, hitting No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart and even making a mark in the U.S., where it reached No. 30 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s success helped solidify Cliff Richard as one of the UK’s most prominent musical figures of the late 1950s and early 1960s, alongside his band The Shadows. With smooth vocals, a laid-back beat, and lyrics that paint a picture of an idealized love interest, “Living Doll” perfectly captures the innocent allure of early rock ballads, appealing to young listeners of the time and offering a refreshing alternative to the edgier rock tunes emerging in the U.S.
“Living Doll” has enjoyed lasting appeal, and in 1986, Richard teamed up with the British comedy group The Young Ones to record a new version of the song for the charity Comic Relief. This rendition shot to No. 1 on the UK charts once again, introducing the song to a new generation and proving its timeless charm. Whether you’re revisiting this classic track or discovering it for the first time, “Living Doll” remains a delightful part of Cliff Richard’s extensive catalog. It’s a song that showcases the charisma and versatility of Richard as an artist, capturing a nostalgic moment in rock history that continues to resonate with fans worldwide.