About the Song
Few voices in popular music carry the emotional elegance and effortless sincerity of Matt Monro. Known as “The Man with the Golden Voice,” Monro’s interpretations weren’t just technically flawless—they were emotionally resonant, capturing longing, hope, and dignity with a quiet strength that has stood the test of time. Two songs that particularly exemplify his artistry are “Walk Away” (1964) and “Born Free” (1966)—very different in tone, yet equally powerful in feeling.
Walk Away (1964): A Ballad of Dignified Heartbreak
Adapted from the original German song “Warum nur, warum?” by Udo Jürgens, “Walk Away” is a masterclass in restraint. The lyrics speak of love that can’t last, and a man who, despite his pain, chooses to let go with grace. With sweeping orchestration and Matt’s rich baritone anchoring every line, the song avoids melodrama and instead offers quiet devastation. It’s heartbreak, yes—but dignified, mature, and real.
Monro doesn’t cry through the song—he reflects. That’s the beauty of it. You feel every word not through force, but through truth. And that’s what made Monro stand apart in an age filled with theatrical performances: his ability to deliver emotion without ever losing control.
Born Free (1966): A Hymn to Freedom and Hope
In contrast, “Born Free” is soaring, cinematic, and filled with promise. Originally written by John Barry and Don Black for the 1966 film of the same name, the song became an anthem for liberation, nature, and the human spirit. When Matt Monro sings “Born free, as free as the wind blows,” it feels like more than a lyric—it feels like a truth sung from the mountaintops.
With his warm, measured phrasing and flawless tone, Monro gives the song a kind of noble weight. It’s patriotic without being proud, emotional without being sentimental. In his hands, it becomes a universal message—not just about wildlife or Africa, but about the freedom we all long for, in one form or another.
cuong