The Partridge Family – Doesn’t Somebody Want to Be Wanted

About the Song

“Doesn’t Somebody Want to Be Wanted” by The Partridge Family is one of the group’s most memorable hits, perfectly capturing the emotional vulnerability and longing that made their music so relatable. Released in 1971 as the second single from their album Up to Date, this song became a major success, reaching No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying The Partridge Family’s place in early ’70s pop culture.

At its heart, “Doesn’t Somebody Want to Be Wanted” is about loneliness and the universal desire to feel loved and needed. The lyrics express a sense of yearning, with the narrator questioning why love seems so elusive. It’s a theme that resonated deeply with listeners, especially the young fans who connected with David Cassidy’s heartfelt delivery. His voice, smooth yet filled with emotion, adds a layer of sincerity that makes the song feel personal and genuine.

One of the most distinctive aspects of this track is its spoken-word bridge—a feature that David Cassidy initially disliked but was convinced to record. In this section, he speaks directly to the listener, adding an extra touch of intimacy. While Cassidy later admitted he wasn’t a fan of this part, it turned out to be a defining moment of the song, making it even more appealing to audiences.

Musically, the song blends soft rock and pop, featuring a mid-tempo groove, gentle guitar work, and a polished production style that was characteristic of The Partridge Family’s sound. It’s catchy and easy to sing along to, which helped it become a radio favorite.

Even decades later, “Doesn’t Somebody Want to Be Wanted” remains a nostalgic classic, reminding listeners of the emotional depth that pop music can have. Whether you loved The Partridge Family for their TV show or their music, this song is a perfect example of why they left such a lasting impact.

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Lyrics: Doesn’t Somebody Want to Be Wanted

I go downtown and roam all around
But every street I walk, I find another dead end
I’m on my own but I’m so all alone
I need somebody so I won’t have to pretend

I know there’s someone just waiting somewhere
I look around for her but she’s just not there

Oh, doesn’t somebody want to be wanted like me, where are you
Doesn’t somebody want to be wanted like me, just like me

I’m running free but I don’t want to be
I couldn’t take another day like yesterday
I’m dead on my feet from walking the street
I need somebody to help me find my way

I’ve gotta get out of this town
Before I do I’ll take a last look around

Oh, doesn’t somebody want to be wanted like me, where are you
Doesn’t somebody want to be wanted like me, just like me

You know, I’m no different from anybody else
I start each day and end each night
But it gets real lonely when you’re by yourself
Now where is love and who is love, I gotta know

Doesn’t somebody want to be wanted like me, where are you
Doesn’t somebody want to be wanted like me, just like me
Doesn’t somebody want to be wanted like me, where are you
Doesn’t somebody want to be wanted like me, just like me

Doesn’t somebody want to be wanted like me, where are you