Ever found yourself humming a tune, only to realize its story stretches far beyond its catchy melody? "What Now, My Love," a seemingly simple ballad, boasts a history as rich and varied as the artists who have embraced it. This is the story of a song that transcended language and genre, weaving its way into the hearts of generations.

Originally penned in French as "Et Maintenant" in 1961, the song is a testament to the enduring power of poignant lyrics and a beautifully crafted melody. The masterful collaboration between composer Gilbert Bcaud and lyricist Pierre Delano birthed a song that resonated deeply with audiences, capturing the raw emotion of heartbreak and the struggle to move forward after loss. Its journey from a French chanson to an international hit is a fascinating tale of adaptation and interpretation, showcasing the universal appeal of its core theme.

Category	Information
Original Title	Et Maintenant (French)
English Title	What Now, My Love?
Original Language	French
Year Written	1961
Composer	Gilbert Bcaud
Lyricist	Pierre Delano
Key Themes	Heartbreak, loss, resilience, moving on
Notable Early Performances	Gilbert Bcaud (original French version)
First English Adaptation	Often credited to various lyricists in the early 1960s.
Shirley Bassey's Version	Reached UK #5 in 1962, a significant early English-language hit.
Sonny & Cher's Version	Reached US #14/UK #12 in 1966, popularizing the song with a new generation.
Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass Version	Reached US #24/MOR #2 in 1966, offering an instrumental interpretation.
Mitch Ryder's Version	Reached US #30 in 1967, adding a rock and roll edge to the song.
Elvis Presley's Version	Performed in 1973, further cementing the song's place in popular culture.
Other Notable Performers	Countless artists across various genres have covered "What Now, My Love."
"The Wondrous World of Sonny and Chersong"	Refers to the musical repertoire and unique sound associated with Sonny Bono and Cher.
Reference Website	AllMusic