1968, Music: Barry Ryan with “Eloise”

"Eloise" sung by the British singer Barry Ryan and written by his twin brother Paul Ryan, was released as a single on 22 November 1968, in the United Kingdom. The five minute song features strong orchestration with melodramatic vocals and a short slow interlude. It was number one in 17 countries including Holland, France, Switzerland, Belgium, Italy, Germany, New Zealand and Australia.

Barry Ryan, born as Barry Sapherson on 24 October 1948 in Leeds, is the son of British singer Marion Ryan. Aged 16, he began performing with his twin brother Paul and the duo signed a recording contract with Decca in 1965. In 1967 Barry continued solo while his brother wrote the songs.

Paul and Barry Ryan (1965)

Barry Ryan (1968)

Barry, Marion and Paul Ryan (1965)

"Eloise" was covered by several artists including:

• Claude François (France, 1968)
• Tapani Kansa (Finland, 1969)
• James Last (Germany, 1969)
• Donald Lautrec (Canada, 1969)
• Los Naufragos (Argentina, 1969)
• Karel Gott (Czech Republic, 1969)
• Se (Finland, 1979)
• Mina (Italy, 1985)
• Mino Raetano (Italy, 1985)
• Robin McAuley (Ireland, 1985)
• The Damned (UK, 1986)
• Tino Casal (Spain, 1987)
• Spagna (Italy, 2001)
• Helloïse (Holland, 2001)
• Leningrad Cowboys (Finland, 2003)
• Helmut Lotti (Belgium, 2003)
• The Lucky Devils (France, 2005)
• Howard Kaylan (US, 2005)
• Art vs. Science (Australia, 2011)
• Stravaganzza (Spain, 2014)

Official Video: "Eloise" by Barry Ryan (1968)