Alfie (song)

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"Alfie" is a song written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David.

It was the theme from the 1966 film Alfie. It was performed in the film during the end credits by Cher in an arrangement by Sonny Bono.

In 1966, Cher released her version (also the original version of this song) as a single. Released on the Imperial label, this version became a top forty hit on the Billboard Hot 100.

Also in 1966, Cilla Black released her version of "Alfie" as a single. It became a top ten hit on the UK Singles Chart, where it peaked at number nine. It was also a minor hit for her on the Billboard Hot 100.

On Billboard's adult contemporary chart, two further versions competed in 1966. While Carmen McRae took her version to number twenty-nine on that chart, the version by Joanie Sommers enjoyed greater success, peaking at number nine.

In 1967, Dionne Warwick released her cover version as a single. This version outperformed both Black's and Cher's in the United States, going all the way to number fifteen on the Hot 100 and number five on Billboard's R&B chart.

In 1968, Stevie Wonder released a harmonica instrumental version. This version also made the Hot 100, peaking at number sixty-six. It was also a top twenty adult contemporary hit. Wonder released the single for Gordy Records under the pseudonym Eivets Rednow.

Other artists to record versions of "Alfie" include several versions by Bacharach himself, Vikki Carr, The Delfonics, Bill Evans, Percy Faith, Maynard Ferguson, Stan Getz, Dick Hyman, Jack Jones, The Anita Kerr Singers, Johnny Mathis, Brad Mehldau, Matt Monro, Mina Mazzini, Olivia Newton-John, Buddy Rich, Joss Stone (for the 2004 remake of Alfie), Barbra Streisand, The Sweet Inspirations, McCoy Tyner, Sarah Vaughan, and Nancy Wilson.

In a deleted scene from the movie Goldmember, they parody the song, replacing Alfie with Austin. The song is sung by most of the main characters. Michael Caine, who plays Austin Powers father, also played Alfie in the original movie. Scenes from Alfie can be seen in the backround while he is singing.