About this album
Sound:
"Soulful melodies intertwine with emotive lyrics, showcasing Warwick's distinctive voice against lush orchestral arrangements."
Where they were
Released in 1964, 'Make Way for Dionne Warwick' was her second studio album, following the success of her debut. At this point, Warwick was establishing herself as a major figure in pop and soul music, building on her collaborations with songwriting legends Burt Bacharach and Hal David.
Why it matters
This album features the hit single 'Walk On By,' which reached No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying Warwick's presence in the music industry. It is also notable for its sophisticated arrangements and lasting influence on subsequent generations of artists in both pop and soul genres.
Essential tracks
- "Walk On By" — 'Walk On By' is perhaps Warwick's most iconic track, showcasing her powerful vocal delivery paired with Bacharach's intricate composition.
- "(They Long to Be) Close to You" — This track highlights Warwick's ability to convey deep emotion, becoming a staple of her repertoire and later popularized by The Carpenters.
- "A House Is Not a Home" — The song exemplifies Warwick's skill at interpreting lyrical depth, with a haunting arrangement that has been covered by numerous artists.
Release Date
January 1, 1964
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 A House Is Not a Home 3:08
- 2 People 3:25
- 3 (They Long to Be) Close to You 2:25
- 4 The Last One to Be Loved 3:23
- 5 Land of Make Believe 3:03
- 6 Reach Out for Me 2:50
- 7 (You’ll Never Get to Heaven) If You Break My Heart 3:09
- 8 Walk On By 2:57
- 9 Wishin’ and Hopin’ 2:58
- 10 I Smiled Yesterday 0:46
- 11 Get Rid of Him 2:20
- 12 Make the Night a Little Longer 2:26