About the Song
In the realm of soft rock, few songs have managed to capture the essence of enduring love and the bittersweet pangs of loss quite like “Everything I Own” by Bread. Released in 1972, this heartfelt ballad has become an enduring classic, resonating with listeners across generations and cultures. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its poignant lyrics, its tender melody, and the emotive vocals of David Gates, the band’s lead singer and primary songwriter.
Bread, an American pop rock band formed in the late 1960s, achieved significant success in the early 1970s with their signature blend of soft rock, folk, and pop influences. Their music was characterized by its gentle melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and harmonious vocals, often featuring three-part harmonies that became their trademark sound. “Everything I Own” stands as one of their most recognizable and beloved songs, encapsulating the band’s quintessential style and showcasing their ability to craft songs that touch the heart.
The song’s lyrics, penned by Gates, paint a vivid picture of a love that has stood the test of time, weathering life’s storms and emerging stronger. The opening lines, “Take my hand, we’ll go wherever you please…”, set the tone for a journey of shared experiences and unwavering commitment. The verses recount the couple’s shared memories, from their humble beginnings to their dreams and aspirations, emphasizing the unbreakable bond that ties them together.
The chorus, “Everything I own, I’ll give to you…”, is a powerful declaration of love and devotion, expressing the singer’s willingness to sacrifice everything for the one they love. It’s a sentiment that resonates deeply with listeners, capturing the essence of true love’s selflessness and unwavering commitment.
The song’s bridge takes a poignant turn, acknowledging the inevitability of change and the possibility of loss. The lyrics, “And if I go before you…”, introduce the somber reality of death and the fear of losing a loved one. Yet, even in the face of this daunting prospect, the singer reaffirms their love and promises to cherish every moment they have together.
“Everything I Own” concludes with a reprise of the chorus, emphasizing the enduring nature of the singer’s love and their unwavering commitment to their partner. The song fades out on a lingering note, leaving a lasting impression on the listener, reminding them of the preciousness of love and the importance of cherishing every moment with those we hold dear.
Bread’s “Everything I Own” has become a timeless classic, transcending generations and cultures to touch the hearts of millions. Its poignant lyrics, tender melody, and emotive vocals have cemented its place as a cornerstone of soft rock music, continuing to inspire and resonate with listeners worldwide. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to capture the universal emotions of love, loss, and the enduring power of human connection.
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Lyrics: Everything I Own
You sheltered me from harmKept me warm, kept me warmYou gave my life to meSet me free, set me freeThe finest years I ever knewWere all the years I had with youAnd I would give anything I ownI’d give up my life, my heart, my homeI would give everything I ownJust to have you back againYou taught me how to loveWhat it’s of, what it’s ofYou never said too muchBut still you showed the wayAnd I knew from watching youNobody else could ever knowThe part of me that can’t let goAnd I would give anything I ownI’d give up my life, my heart, my homeI would give everything I ownJust to have you back againIs there someone you knowYour loving them soBut taking them all for granted?You may lose them one daySomeone takes them awayAnd they don’t hear the words you long to sayI would give anything I ownI’d give up my life, my heart, my homeI would give everything I ownJust to have you back againJust to touch you once again