Bread – Make it with you

Ah, Make It With You, a song that evokes warm summer nights and whispered secrets, isn’t it? Released in 1970, this iconic ballad became the signature tune for the American soft rock group, Bread.

Now, Bread’s story itself is a fascinating one. Formed in Los Angeles in the mid-sixties, the band brought together a unique blend of musical backgrounds. David Gates, the group’s songwriter and vocalist, hailed from a folk music upbringing. Jimmy Griffin, on the other hand, had a strong foundation in jazz and blues. Robt. Evans, the bassist, leaned towards classical music, while drummer Mike Botts had a rock and roll pedigree. This confluence of styles created Bread’s signature sound – a smooth, melodic approach to rock with introspective lyrics.

Make It With You perfectly encapsulates this essence. Written by David Gates, the song’s melody is deceptively simple. A gentle acoustic guitar strumming sets the pace, punctuated by the warm tones of a piano. Gates’ vocals are a masterclass in understated emotion. His voice is clear and reassuring, conveying a sense of yearning without ever becoming melodramatic.

But what truly elevates Make It With You is its lyrical subtlety. The song doesn’t explicitly declare love; instead, it paints a picture of intimacy and shared dreams. Lines like “I believe in the things that you do” and “We’ll see it through, if you believe in me too” hint at a deeper connection, a willingness to face life’s uncertainties together. There’s a touch of sensuality woven into the lyrics as well, particularly in the iconic line, “I wanna make it with you.” While not overtly suggestive, the phrase cleverly uses the double entendre of “making it” to imply both emotional connection and a more physical yearning.

This subtle eroticism was a hallmark of Bread’s music. While their contemporaries were exploring more explicit themes, Bread managed to convey a sense of intimacy through clever wordplay and emotional nuance. Make It With You perfectly exemplifies this approach. It’s a song that speaks volumes without ever needing to shout.

The success of Make It With You was undeniable. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1970, becoming Bread’s only number one single. It has since transcended its era, finding a place in countless films, television shows, and commercials. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the song’s timeless themes of love, commitment, and the simple joy of being together.

So, the next time you hear the opening chords of Make It With You, take a moment to appreciate the artistry behind it. It’s a song that’s more than just a catchy melody; it’s a carefully crafted piece of music that speaks to the universal human desire for connection.

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Lyrics

“Make It With You”