If you recently read this post on Matthew’s blog, this is the song he was talking about. Here’s Matthew’s story behind “You’re All I Need”:
I got many suggestions from people that I should do another Christmas song, but one suggestion was that I write a blues number for all the people who are feeling the economic weight on their shoulders this year. Believe me, I can sympathize- I’m already broke most of the time, and the pressure to buy a bunch of stuff for everyone because it’s Christmas never, ever feels good. You either have to tell everyone you’re broke or everyone assumes you’re a cheap bastard.
While writing lyrics I imagined what it must be like for a single parent right now, having to explain to his little daughter that they can barely afford to keep the house they live in. Presents and toys will have to happen next year, hopefully.
When I got to the last verse of the song, I actually started crying. I honestly don’t know if I could say that kind of thing to my children, if I had any. I would just be glad that I had my family, that would be present enough for me. That would be all I’d need.
For me, this is just a song. What broke me down is that, for many people this year, it’s reality.
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You’re All I Need – 5.4MB MP3
Lyrics:
You and me we’re all alone.
All around us is a storm,
but at least we’ve got our home
to keep us warm.
You know daddy will provide,
but still your love for me is free.
It’s Christmas
and you’re all I need
I would shower you with toys
if times were easier than now,
but this Christmas we’ll have joy.
We will somehow.
My little girl, you smile at me
and you know I must concede
this Christmas
you are all I need
I could sing a lullaby
’cause it’s all that I can spare.
When you’re sleeping I can cry
and you won’t hear.
I’ll just hold you in my arms
and thank the Lord that we believe
’cause it’s Christmas
and you’re all I need
December 12th, 2008 at 10:09 pm
Thanks for the great song Matthew. That last verse definitely gets you, especially speaking as a father. wow…
December 14th, 2008 at 5:50 pm
As a single divorced dad of 2 boys Matt, your words hit home big time.