Bill Medley on the Righteous Brothers, Dirty Dancing, and Elvis
Rolling Stone • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Bill Medley, the last surviving original member of the Righteous Brothers, reflects on the band's history, their iconic hits, and the responsibility of carrying on the legacy after Bobby Hatfield's death in 2003.
- The Righteous Brothers gained major success in the 1960s with hits like “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin'” and experienced a resurgence in the late 1980s and early 1990s due to their songs being featured in popular films such as Top Gun, Dirty Dancing, and Ghost.
- Medley discusses his friendship with Elvis Presley, the impact of working with producer Phil Spector, and the challenges and emotions of performing without his longtime partner Bobby Hatfield.
- Despite announcing a farewell tour, Medley continues to perform actively at age 85, attributing his longevity in music to his faith, health care, and passion for performing.
- The interview highlights Medley’s deep connection to the music, his respect for the past, and his commitment to keeping the Righteous Brothers' legacy alive with new singer Bucky Heard.
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