Introduction:
The American soft rock scene of the early 1970s wouldn’t be the same without the iconic ballad, Make It With You. Released in 1970 by the band Bread, the song quickly transcended its genre to become a timeless classic.
Bread itself was a force to be reckoned with in the soft rock landscape. Formed in Los Angeles in 1969, the band consisted of vocalist David Gates, guitarist Jimmy Griffin, bassist Robb Royer, and drummer Mike Botts. Each member brought their own musical talents to the table, but it was David Gates who would be the driving force behind Make It With You.
Gates wasn’t just the song’s writer, he also lent his soulful vocals to the track. Make It With You showcased Gates’ songwriting prowess, weaving a simple yet powerful message of love and commitment within the framework of a soft rock melody. The song’s production was a collaborative effort, with Gates himself working alongside bandmates Terry Kath and Jimmy Griffin. Their combined efforts produced a soundscape that perfectly complemented the emotional weight of the lyrics.
Make It With You was an instant hit. Climbing the Billboard Hot 100 chart, the song reached the coveted number one spot and remained there for a remarkable four weeks. This wasn’t just a momentary surge in popularity; Make It With You established itself as a permanent fixture on radio playlists and became a go-to choice for weddings and romantic occasions.
The song’s enduring legacy is a testament to its universal themes. Make It With You speaks to the desire for connection and shared experiences in a relationship. Gates’ earnest vocals deliver the lyrics with conviction, leaving listeners convinced of the sincerity of the song’s message.
Make It With You continues to be a beloved song, covered by numerous artists and featured in countless movies and television shows. Its place in pop culture history is undeniable, solidifying Bread’s status as one of the defining bands of the soft rock era.
Video:
Lyrics:
Hey, have you ever tried
Really reaching out for the other side? I may be climbing on rainbows But baby, here goesDreams, they’re for those who sleep
Life is for us to keep And if you’re wondering what this song is leading to I want to make it with you I really think that we could make it, girlNo, you don’t know me well
In every little thing only time will tell But you believe the things that I do And we’ll see it throughLife can be short or long
Love can be right or wrong And if I chose the one I’d like to help me through I’d like to make it with you I really think that we could make it, girlBaby, you know that dreams, they’re for those who sleep
Life, it’s for us to keep And if I chose the one I’d like to help me through I’d like to make it with you I really think that we could make it, girl