“Cherish” (The Association)

The Association had a lot of big hits back in the mid-to-late ’60s, but their biggest was today’s classic song of the day, “Cherish.” This single, released in August of 1966, went to #1 on both the Billboard Hot 100 and Cash Box Top 100. It was also a #1 hit in Canada.

“Cherish” was written by group member Terry Kirkman. He said it only took him a half hour to write which, if true, is somewhat amazing. The backing instruments were recorded in a old garage converted into a recording studio, while the group tracked their vocals at Columbia Studios in New York City, with Mr. Kirkman singing lead.

The song is notable for its intricate vocal harmonies, including those that mimic the sounds of chimes. (The backing also includes real chimes.) The song features two bridges, back to back, the first going iim7 – V – iiim7 – VII – V – I – iim/V – IV – iim7 – bVII – V under a relatively static melody line, which builds a nice tension leading into the completely different second bridge. It’s after that second bridge that the song modulates up a whole step and heads to the third verse.

When I was growing up in the early ’70s, “Cherish” was a popular song for school dances. It was also a popular choice for school choirs who got to sing all those wonderful Association harmonies. I heard, played, and sang this one a lot back then.

Interestingly, teen idol David Cassidy recorded a cover of “Cherish,” backed by members of the Wrecking Crew. His single, released in October of 1971, was a moderate success, peaking at #9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #1 on Billboard’s Adult Contemporary chart.

So here’s today’s daily bonus video of the day, the Association lip synching “Cherish” on some television program back in 1966. What a clean cut looking group of young gentlemen they were.