Introduction
“Will You Love Me Tomorrow,” sometimes titled “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow,” began life in 1960 as a Brill Building masterpiece crafted by songwriting duo Carole King and Gerry Goffin. First recorded by the Shirelles later that year, their version made history as the first recording by an African-American girl group to top the Billboard Hot 100 – a milestone that resonated culturally and commercially . It was this sensation that cemented King and Goffin’s status as powerful architects of 1960s pop soul.
Over the years, the song transcended eras and genres, becoming a beloved standard. Carole King herself reinterpreted it in a slower, more introspective form on her iconic 1971 album Tapestry, backed by luminaries Joni Mitchell and James Taylor . This rendition further emphasized the emotional vulnerability woven into the song’s lyrics—highlighting the universal uncertainty of love when dawn breaks.
In 1995, the Bee Gees paid tribute to the song’s enduring legacy by recording their own version for the compilation Tapestry Revisited: A Tribute to Carole King. Known for their lush harmonies and emotive pop stylings, the Gibb brothers infused the song with their signature reflective tone and harmonious elegance . While this version received mixed opinions over the years—some listeners, including Carole King, reportedly considered it the “definitive version”—it stands as a testament to the song’s adaptability and resonance across different eras.
The Bee Gees’ rendition reinforces how “Will You Love Me Tomorrow” operates as a musical chameleon—comfortable in doo-wop, soul, soft rock, country, bachata, jazz, and disco-tinged arrangements. Its melancholy plea—“Will you still love me tomorrow?”—continues to echo across time, reminding listeners of the fragile promise of love and the intimate fears shared across generations.
This rich history—from its Brill Building origins, its landmark Shirelles hit, Carole King’s emotional reworking, to the Bee Gees’ homage—speaks volumes. It’s a 300‑word reflection on why this enduring song remains a poignant and timeless declaration of love’s uncertainty.