“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
The year was 1970—a time when soft rock was just starting to carve its place in music history. It was in that era that Bread, led by David Gates, released a song that would become a heartfelt anthem for countless listeners: Make It With You. This song became a bridge between generations, offering simple but profound reflections on love and connection. For many, it became more than just a song; it was a reminder that real love is something to build and cherish.
About the Composition
- Title: Make It With You
- Composer: David Gates
- Premiere Date: 1970
- Album: On the Waters
- Genre: Soft Rock
Background
“Make It With You” was written by David Gates and became a defining piece for Bread. Released in 1970, it quickly climbed the charts, eventually reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Gates, the driving creative force behind Bread, poured his thoughts on love and commitment into the lyrics. The song emerged in a period marked by societal shifts and a yearning for unity, offering listeners a gentle yet compelling message about building relationships and making things work together. Its soft, soothing melody struck a chord with audiences who found solace in its warmth, and it has remained a staple of soft rock ever since.
Musical Style
“Make It With You” is emblematic of the soft rock genre, featuring mellow instrumentation and a soothing rhythm. Gates’ gentle, expressive vocals are backed by a blend of acoustic guitars, subtle percussion, and harmonies that create an intimate atmosphere. The song’s structure is straightforward, with verses and choruses that flow naturally, mirroring the message of building something strong and enduring in relationships. This simplicity enhances the song’s emotional impact, inviting listeners to connect with its message deeply.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Make It With You” revolve around the theme of love as a choice and a journey. Gates expresses a heartfelt willingness to build something meaningful with his partner, emphasizing love’s practical side over fleeting passion. Lines like “I really think that we could make it, girl” reflect a realistic yet hopeful approach to love, resonating with audiences who appreciate its authenticity and depth.
Performance History
Following its release, “Make It With You” quickly became one of Bread’s signature songs and a beloved track for fans of soft rock. The song has been covered by various artists over the years, attesting to its enduring appeal. It is often performed in intimate settings, where its warm, inviting quality can shine. Each performance has its own flavor, but all pay homage to the simplicity and sincerity that made the song famous.
Cultural Impact
“Make It With You” left an indelible mark on the music scene, helping to shape the genre of soft rock. It has been used in film soundtracks, commercials, and numerous media to evoke feelings of nostalgia and love. The song’s lyrics and melody have been celebrated by couples as a romantic anthem, and its gentle optimism has helped it resonate across generations. Beyond the realm of soft rock, it stands as an emblem of how music can touch the soul and make complex emotions feel beautifully simple.
Legacy
More than five decades after its release, “Make It With You” remains an influential piece in the soft rock canon. Its message of love as a journey, as something one “makes” with care and effort, continues to resonate with new listeners. Its legacy lives on in covers, homages, and the hearts of those who appreciate its message of enduring love. David Gates and Bread have left a lasting impression, reminding us that music can be a timeless companion in our quest for connection and understanding.
Conclusion
“Make It With You” is more than just a song; it’s a comforting reminder of love’s quiet strength. Listening to this track is like slipping into a warm memory, a soft echo of simpler times. If you haven’t yet experienced the gentle magic of Bread’s Make It With You, take a moment to sit back, let the melody wash over you, and allow its message to resonate. You might find yourself falling in love with its timeless beauty all over again.
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Lyrics
Hey, have you ever tried
Really reaching out for the other side?
I may be climbing on rainbows
But baby, here goes
Dreams, 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, girl
No, 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 through
Life 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, girl
Baby, 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