Joni James - Why Don’t You Believe Me (1952)

Charted at #1 in Billboard in December 1952, and #11 on UK Singles chart. This was Joni’s first hit and the song which began her legacy. Competing versions by already established artists, Patti Page (whose recording charted at #4), and Margaret Whiting (#29), did not stop Joni’s version as it rose to the top. Charting remakes: #37 Hot 100 for the Duprees in 1963 (#10 Adult Contemporary), #127 Bubbling Under for Vic Damone in 1965 (#25 AC) and #92 Country for Donna Stark in 1980. Original Billboard review: “Miss James continues to impress with her chanting. With enough exploitation, she could break through. Her reading here, of a nice, new ballad is smooth. Rated 70 out of 100.“ Orchestra conducted by Lew Douglas. Written by Lew Douglas, King Laney & Roy Rodde. B-side is “Purple Shades“.