"Why Don't They Understand" is a popular song written by Jack Fishman and Joe Henderson, best known as a hit recording by American country and pop singer George Hamilton IV. Released in October 1957 on the ABC-Paramount label, the single reached number 10 on the U.S. pop chart (Billboard Hot 100), number 22 on the UK Singles Chart, and number 18 in Canada in 1958. The arrangement was by Don Costa, and the B-side was "Even Tho'." The song is classified as traditional pop and has a length of 2 minutes and 30 seconds.
Lyrical Theme: The lyrics express the frustration of a couple whose love is not accepted or understood by others ("Why, why don't they understand / Why lead us by the hand / Why don't they understand / Why, why do they smile and say / Love can't be ours today"). The song conveys a plea for societal acceptance of a romantic relationship.
Other Notable Versions:
- Bobby Vinton released a version in 1970 that reached number 23 on the adult contemporary chart and number 109 on the U.S. pop chart.
- Cliff Richard released a version on his 1965 EP Why Don't They Understand.
- Petula Clark included a version on her 1965 album The World's Greatest International Hits!, produced by Tony Hatch.
- Frankie Avalon released a version as the B-side to his 1969 single "For Your Love."
- Other artists who have recorded the song include Glen Mason (1957), Victor Silvester and His Ballroom Orchestra (1958), Lem Winchester (1960), The Anita Kerr Singers (1963), Bobby Goldsboro (1964), Wink Martindale (1964), Dave Berry (1965), Patty Duke (1966), Don Spencer (1966), and The Williams Brothers (2002).
