Introduction:
While the name “Bread” might conjure images of fluffy loaves and wholesome bakeries, their 1971 hit, “Baby I’m-A Want You,” offers a softer side of the soft rock genre. This soulful ballad, sung by the band’s lead vocalist, David Gates, showcases the group’s ability to blend beautiful melodies with heartfelt lyrics, creating a song that transcends time and continues to resonate with listeners.
Composed by band members Gates and Jimmy Griffin, “Baby I’m-A Want You” emerged from the recording sessions for Bread’s fourth studio album of the same name, released in 1972. Produced by Gates himself, the song became an instant hit, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and solidifying Bread’s place as one of the most popular musical acts of the early 1970s.
While “Baby I’m-A Want You” falls under the umbrella of “love song,” it delves deeper than mere infatuation. The lyrics express a raw vulnerability and a desperate longing for a lost love. Lines like “Maybe I’m crazy / But I just can’t live without / Your lovin’ and…” convey a sense of emotional dependence and the profound impact this relationship has on the singer. Gates’ smooth vocals deliver the lyrics with a sincerity that resonates deeply with listeners who have experienced similar feelings of longing and heartache.
“Baby I’m-A Want You” wasn’t confined to the soft rock genre. Its soulful melody and heartfelt message transcended genre barriers, appealing to a wide audience. The song’s success further solidified Bread’s reputation for crafting sophisticated yet relatable music, a quality that continues to attract new listeners today.
Despite its release over 50 years ago, “Baby I’m-A Want You” continues to be a beloved classic. Its timeless themes of love, loss, and longing resonate across generations. The song has been covered by numerous artists, featured in films and television shows, and remains a popular choice for weddings and romantic occasions.
“Baby I’m-A Want You” is more than just a catchy tune; it’s an invitation to embrace emotional honesty. The song reminds us that vulnerability is a strength, and the desire for connection is a fundamental human need. As David Gates’ voice carries you through the melody, remember, even the most intense emotions deserve to be expressed.
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Lyrics:
Baby, I’m-a want youBaby, I’m-a need youYou’re the only one I care enough to hurt aboutMaybe I’m-a crazy, but I just can’t live with outYour lovin’ and affection, givin’ me directionLike a guiding light to help me through my darkest hour
Lately, I’m a prayin’That you’ll always be here stayin’ beside me
Used to be my life was just emotions passing byFeeling all the while and never really knowing why
Lately, I’m-a prayin’That you’ll always be here stayin’ beside me
Used to be my life was just emotions passing byThen you came along and made me laugh and made me cryYou taught me why
Baby, I’m-a want youBaby, I’m-a need you
Ooh, it took so long to find you, babyBaby, I’m-a want youBaby, I’m-a need you