Music of the Day : Bill Withers - Lean on Me

Source

"Lean on Me" is a song by American singer-songwriter Bill Withers, released on April 21, 1972. It was written and produced by Bill Withers. It was released as the first single from his second album, Still Bill (May 1972). "Lean on Me" has received great acclaim since its release, and numerous other versions have been recorded. It was also used in TV series, movies and opening ceremonies. And it provided an emotional uplift for the 1989 movie Lean on Me, which has the same name as the song. Source

Bill Withers - Lean on Me

Lyrics

[Intro]
Hmm
Hmm hmm hmm hmm
Hmm hmm hmm hmm
Hmm hmm hmm hmm hmm

[Verse 1]
Sometimes in our lives, we all have pain
We all have sorrow
But if we are wise
We know that there's always tomorrow

[Chorus]
Lean on me when you're not strong
And I'll be your friend
I'll help you carry on
For it won't be long
'Til I'm gonna need
Somebody to lean on

[Verse 2]
Please swallow your pride
If I have things you need to borrow
For no one can fill
Those of your needs
That you won't let show

[Bridge]
You just call on me, brother, when you need a hand
We all need somebody to lean on
I just might have a problem that you'll understand
We all need somebody to lean on

[Chorus]
Lean on me when you're not strong
And I'll be your friend
I'll help you carry on
For it won't be long
'Til I'm gonna need
Somebody to lean on

[Bridge]
You just call on me, brother, when you need a hand
We all need somebody to lean on
I just might have a problem that you'll understand
We all need somebody to lean on

[Verse 3]
If there is a load you have to bear
That you can't carry
I'm right up the road
I'll share your load
If you just call me

[Outro]
(Call me) If you need a friend
(Call me) Call me, uhuh uhuh
(Call me) If you need a friend
(Call me) If you ever need a friend
(Call me) Call me
(Call me) Call me
(Call me) Call me
(Call me) Call me
(Call me) If you need a friend
(Call me) Call me
(Call me) Call me
(Call me) Call me
(Call me) Call me
(Call me)

Songwriter : Bill Withers
Source

The lyrics of "Lean On Me" are poetic but worded so simply that it makes it clear what Bill Withers wants to say. According to Bill Withers, "Lean on Me" is a song about a rural man's loneliness in the big city. And it shows the optimistic and vulnerable side of Bill Withers. But "Lean On Me" has become an inspirational anthem for those rising up after tragedy and a song celebrating togetherness and resilience in troubled times. "Lean On Me" is a song that speaks directly to the audience, so it was able to touch people and impress its audience. "Lean On Me" has received critical acclaim since its release and remains popular despite being released half a century ago.

Bill Withers - Lean On Me (Live in Chicago, 1972)

Bill Withers - Lean On Me (BBC In Concert, May 11, 1974)

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