“Personally” – Karla Bonoff
“Personally” is a well-loved song by American singer-songwriter Karla Bonoff. Here are the key details about the song:
Background and Creation
- Artist: Karla Bonoff
- Album: Wild Heart of the Young
- Release Date: 1982
- Genre: Pop, Soft Rock
- Length: 3:38
- Label: Columbia Records
- Writers: Paul Kelly
- Producer: Kenny Edwards
Songwriting and Production
- “Personally” was written by Paul Kelly, an American songwriter (not to be confused with the Australian musician of the same name).
- The song was produced by Kenny Edwards, who was a long-time collaborator of Karla Bonoff and a former member of the Stone Poneys.
Themes and Lyrics
- The song’s lyrics deal with a direct and intimate approach to love, with the narrator expressing their feelings personally and earnestly.
- Its catchy chorus and straightforward lyrics make it a relatable and charming love song, emphasizing a personal touch in expressing romantic sentiments.
Reception
- “Personally” became Karla Bonoff’s most successful single, reaching number 19 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States.
- The song also performed well on the Adult Contemporary chart, where it reached number 3, showcasing its broad appeal.
Legacy
- “Personally” remains one of Karla Bonoff’s signature songs and is a staple of her live performances.
- The song’s success helped to cement Bonoff’s reputation as a talented singer-songwriter in the early 1980s.
Music Video and Performances
- The music video for “Personally” features Karla Bonoff performing the song, capturing the personal and intimate vibe of the lyrics.
- Bonoff continues to perform “Personally” in her concerts, and it remains a fan favorite, often evoking nostalgic feelings among her listeners.
“Personally” stands out as a heartfelt and catchy tune that highlights Karla Bonoff’s ability to connect with her audience through sincere and relatable lyrics, making it a timeless piece in her musical repertoire.