Adam Faith’s “What Do You Want?”: A Short and Sweet Chart-Topping Sensation
In 1959, Adam Faith made a significant mark on the British music scene with his iconic single “What Do You Want?”. This song, written by Les Vandyke, became a defining moment in Faith’s career, propelling him to the top of the UK Singles Chart. Despite its brevity, clocking in at just 98 seconds, “What Do You Want?” managed to achieve something remarkable—it became the shortest song ever to reach number one on the UK Singles Chart, a record it still holds today.
Released in November 1959, “What Do You Want?” was a meticulously crafted piece. John Burgess produced the track, while Adrian Kerridge handled the recording, bringing together a talented team that included Les Reed on piano, a rhythm section, a chorus of singers, and six pizzicato string players arranged by the legendary John Barry. This combination of talents created a distinctive sound that stood out in an era dominated by rock and roll.
The song made its debut on the UK Singles Chart on November 20, 1959, and it quickly captivated the public, spending an impressive 19 weeks on the chart. Its catchy melody, combined with Faith’s smooth and effortless delivery, struck a chord with listeners, helping it to ascend to the number one spot, where it reigned for three weeks. Notably, during its final week at the top, “What Do You Want?” shared the number one position with Emile Ford & the Checkmates’ “What Do You Want to Make Those Eyes at Me For?”, marking the last time two songs shared the number one spot in the UK.
“What Do You Want?” was more than just a chart-topping hit; it was a cultural moment that encapsulated the shifting tastes of British youth at the time. Its success marked the beginning of Adam Faith’s rise as one of the UK’s premier pop idols, and the song itself remains a testament to the power of concise, well-crafted pop music. With its enduring appeal, “What Do You Want?” continues to be celebrated as a classic example of late 1950s pop, and its place in music history is assured not just for its chart success, but for the lasting impact it had on the genre.