“How Can I Be Sure” is a standout single by The Young Rascals (later known simply as The Rascals). Featured on their influential Groovin’ album, this song marked a notable change from their raw rock-soul fusion to a richer pop-soul ballad.
Penned by Felix Cavaliere and Eddie Brigati, the track is driven by Brigati’s heartfelt vocals set against lush instrumentation—including accordion, trumpet, strings, and piano—creating a dreamy, almost cabaret-style atmosphere.
How Can I Be Sure
Chart Success:
The song became The Young Rascals’ fourth Top 10 hit, peaking at No. 4 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and topping Canada’s RPM chart .
Eddie’s Moment:
This ballad was the most successful single featuring Eddie Brigati as lead vocalist—his emotional delivery became one of its defining features.
Beatles Influence:
Cavaliere admitted that the band felt emboldened to try a soft-ballad in 3/4 time—like a pop waltz—because The Beatles had done it so well with “Michelle” and “Yesterday” .
Romantic Inspiration:
The heartfelt lyrics were born from Felix’s relationship with Adrienne Becchuri; she had inspired earlier hits like “Groovin’” and now brought new emotional weight to this song.
