Some songs are so timeless they don’t just survive the decades—they evolve with them. “Hurt So Bad,” first made famous by Little Anthony and The Imperials in 1965, returns for its 60th anniversary in a sweeping new duet featuring Little Anthony himself alongside acclaimed pop country powerhouse Brooke Moriber.
Produced by the legendary Fred Mollin, this reimagined version doesn’t simply revisit the past; it reframes it. What was once a singular plea of heartbreak is now transformed into a poignant conversation between two voices, filled with longing, regret, and the hope for reconciliation. Moriber’s crystal clear tone blends seamlessly with Little Anthony’s soulful delivery, their harmonies lifting the emotional stakes to new heights.
The production is equally masterful. Recorded at Nashville landmarks Sound Stage Studios and Zoomar Studios, the track features an all star lineup of musicians: Larry Paxton (bass), Greg Morrow (drums), Kerry Marx and Justin Roller (guitars), Pat Coil (keyboards), and a lush sampled orchestra arranged by Larry Hall. The final mix by Dave Salley and the mastering work of Steve Fallone at Sterling Sound give the track a warm, modern polish without losing its classic soul.
Vocal arrangements, developed collaboratively by Moriber and Little Anthony, bring out both nostalgia and urgency. The original lyric’s raw ache “Come back, it hurts so bad… I’m begging you please…” still cuts deep, but the call and response style adds a fresh emotional perspective.
More than a tribute, this duet is a testament to music’s power to transcend time and genre. Little Anthony, an icon of American soul, and Moriber, a Broadway bred country singer praised for her “stellar songwriting and powerhouse vocals,” prove that great songs can speak just as strongly to a new generation when delivered with authenticity and heart.
“Hurt So Bad” by Brooke Moriber x Little Anthony is available now on all streaming platforms and it’s not just a revival, it’s a revelation.
Listen/download now: https://vyd.co/HurtSoBad
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/track/2H7aQTCarQNjtEuLgSgdb8?si=18b9804b8d0b4747
