Uncovering the Feud: Dionne Warwick and Cilla Black
In recent weeks, a video of an iconic red-haired woman singing “surprise surprise” in a maroon ensemble has taken social media by storm. This viral clip is from the 1980s television show “Surprise Surprise,” hosted by English pop star and television host, Cilla Black. As a new generation discovers Black through this viral video, they are also learning about the legendary feud between Black and singer Dionne Warwick.
The feud between Warwick and Black dates back several decades, with Warwick accusing Black of copying her singing style. Recently, a tweet resurfaced, stating that Cilla Black “stole a bunch of songs from Dionne Warwick back in the day, including ‘Anyone Who Had a Heart.'” This song, written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, was originally recorded by Warwick and became a hit in multiple countries.
Warwick’s recording of “Anyone Who Had a Heart” reached the Top Ten charts in the United States, Canada, Spain, Netherlands, South Africa, Belgium, and Australia. As the song gained popularity in the U.S., English record producer George Martin pitched it to Cilla Black. Black’s version debuted at No. 28 on the U.K. Top 50, while Warwick’s version reached No. 42. However, Black’s rendition eventually climbed to No. 10 in the market.
In 1995, during an interview for “Great Performances,” Cilla Black candidly discussed the feud, revealing, “It was a No. 1