1965

All I Really Want to Do

Review by Sid Emerson

Cher's debut solo album, All I Really Want to Do, released in 1965, stands as a pivotal milestone in the illustrious career of this iconic artist. With the release strategically timed following the success of 'I Got You Babe,' Cher embarked on a bold journey to establish herself as a solo artist.

The album, a departure from the familiar Sonny & Cher sound, ventured into the realm of folk-pop, showcasing Cher's remarkable versatility. Guided by the astute production of Sonny Bono, it featured a compelling mix of both cover versions and original songs penned by Bono himself. Cher's artistry shone brightly as she breathed new life into three classic Bob Dylan songs, infusing them with her unique flair.

All I Really Want to Do weaves together the threads of contemporary rock and folk elements, creating a tapestry that perfectly complements Cher's youthful and electrifying vocal performance. The title track, "All I Really Want to Do," soared to notable chart success, providing a glimpse into Cher's boundless potential as a solo artist.

This album, while firmly rooted in its time, foreshadows the dynamic and adaptable nature of Cher's career. It serves as an essential listen for both dedicated fans and music historians, offering a glimpse into the early sparks of a musical legend. Notably, the album climbed to number 16 on the Billboard 200 and spent an impressive 24 weeks on the chart, signaling a promising beginning to Cher's solo journey.

Tracklist

"All I Really Want to Do" (Bob Dylan) – 2:56
"I Go to Sleep" (Ray Davies) – 2:28
"Needles and Pins" (Sonny Bono, Jack Nitzsche) – 2:26
"Don't Think Twice" (Bob Dylan) – 2:25
"He Thinks I Still Care" (Dickey Lee Lipscomb) – 2:15
"Dream Baby" (Sonny Bono) – 2:58
"The Bells of Rhymney" (Idris Davies, Pete Seeger) – 3:07
"Girl Don't Come" (Chris Andrews) – 2:05
"See See Rider" (Traditional, arranged by Bono, Charles Greene, Robert Stone) – 2:38
"Come and Stay with Me" (Jackie DeShannon) – 2:45
"Cry Myself to Sleep" (Mike Gordon) – 2:18
"Blowin' in the Wind" (Bob Dylan) – 3:24