Dusty Springfield was one of the world’s first celebrities to openly disclose her alternative lifestyle, with an image as striking as her music and a reputation for being a wild party-goer - one could say that Dusty had a lust for life. 

Her melancholy love songs speak straight to the heart, delivered with a heartbreaking intimacy that betrays the depth of their authenticity. 

Let’s have a look at some classic moments when Dusty’s alluring darkness was captured so perfectly in time.

I Just Don't Know What Do With Myself

She made this Burt Bacharach number her own, debuting the brooding undertones that would become her signature. With her heavy-lined eyes, she stares straight down the camera with a yearning that leaves no doubt she means every word. 

You Don't Have To Say You Love Me

“You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me” was adapted from an Italian song, "Lo Che Non Vivo” that Dusty fell in love with. Despite being unable to understand the lyrics, she was moved to tears and was inspired to record an English version.

The English lyrics were crafted to reflect the original sentiment of the song, but one can’t help but wonder just how much of Dusty is also reflected in this masterpiece of heart and soul. 

Son Of A Preacher Man

“Son of a Preacher Man” was originally written for Aretha Franklin but ended up in Dusty Springfield’s hands instead. Recorded in September 1968, the fateful exchange was a career-defining moment that earned her a place amongst the greatest soul singers of all time. It was released in 1969 on the Dusty In Memphis album. 

The song featured in a Pulp Fiction scene that suggests the darkness of Dusty certainly wasn’t lost on Quentin Tarantino. 

Dusty Springfield had secrets. Big secrets. Behind the towering blonde beehive and dark kohl-lined eyes, she hid away from relentless rumors about her sexuality. But she didn’t back down. In time, she opened up about her private life, which, perhaps too wild and progressive for the 1960’s, was nothing short of revolutionary.

I’ll leave you with a quote from the lady herself that shows just how ahead of her time she really was. 

“... I know I'm perfectly as capable of being swayed by a girl as by a boy. More and more people feel that way and I don't see why I shouldn't.” – Dusty Springfield, 1970.

Read more: Take The Hits Of The 60s Quiz