Bread – Baby I’m-A Want You

 Now that’s a song that brings back a wave of warm nostalgia, isn’t it? Released in 1972, it wasn’t just the title track of their fourth studio album, it became a cornerstone of the soft rock genre, solidifying Bread’s place as one of the most successful bands of the early 70s.

The mastermind behind Bread, of course, was David Gates. Songwriter, guitarist, and vocalist, Gates’ smooth baritone and knack for crafting relatable lyrics were a winning combination. Baby I’m-A Want You perfectly exemplifies that.

But before we delve into the song itself, let’s rewind a bit. Bread’s story began in the mid-60s in Los Angeles. Gates, along with Robb Royer and James Griffeth, initially formed a band called the Leaves. They had some minor successes, but it wasn’t until they regrouped in 1968, bringing in drummer Mike Botts and keyboardist Larry Knechtel, that Bread truly took shape. Their sound shifted towards a softer, more melodic rock, with Gates’ vocals at the forefront.

Their debut album in 1969, simply titled Bread, was a sleeper hit, spawning the classic Make It With You. But it was their follow-up, On the Table (1970), that propelled them to superstardom. Hits like If and It Don’t Matter To Me established their signature sound and secured their place on the pop charts.

Baby I’m-A Want You arrived two years later, riding a wave of anticipation. The album itself was a commercial triumph, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart. But the title track transcended mere sales figures. It became an anthem for the lovelorn, a heartfelt confession of need and desire.

The song opens with a simple yet captivating fingerpicking pattern on the acoustic guitar, setting the stage for Gates’ signature voice. The lyrics are deceptively straightforward. There’s no flowery language, no grand metaphors. It’s a man laying bare his emotions, admitting his dependence on a love that gives him direction and purpose.

Baby I’m-A Want You is more than just a love song, though. It’s a testament to the power of vulnerability. In a world often obsessed with strength and machismo, Gates allows himself to be emotionally exposed. He acknowledges his vulnerability, his need for love’s guiding light.

This vulnerability resonated deeply with listeners. In an era where rock music was often associated with rebellion and angst, Baby I’m-A Want You offered a softer, more introspective approach. It spoke to the yearning for connection, the desire for a love that feels like home.

So, as the opening chords of Baby I’m-A Want You begin, prepare to be transported back to a simpler time. A time of acoustic guitars, heartfelt lyrics, and the enduring power of love’s sweet surrender.

Video

Lyrics

“Baby I’m-A Want You”