About the song
In the annals of music history, certain songs transcend their time, resonating with audiences across generations. Cat Stevens’ “Wild World” is one such timeless masterpiece. Released in 1970 as a single from his acclaimed album “Tea for the Tillerman,” this poignant ballad has captured hearts with its evocative lyrics and haunting melody.
Inspired by the end of his relationship with actress Patti D’Arbanville, Stevens crafted a heartfelt farewell to his departing lover. The song’s lyrical depth and emotional resonance have made it a perennial favorite among listeners. With its evocative imagery and introspective tone, “Wild World” invites listeners to delve into the complexities of love, loss, and the uncertainty of the future.
Stevens’ distinctive voice, characterized by its warmth and vulnerability, perfectly complements the song’s emotional intensity. His heartfelt delivery of lines like “You, you, you, you, you’re a wild world, baby” conveys a sense of both longing and acceptance. The song’s simple yet effective arrangement, featuring acoustic guitar and gentle percussion, creates a stripped-down and intimate atmosphere, allowing Stevens’ vocals to take center stage.
The enduring popularity of “Wild World” is a testament to its timeless appeal. The song’s themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning have resonated with countless listeners over the years. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Cat Stevens or discovering his music for the first time, “Wild World” is a must-listen. Its poignant beauty and emotional depth continue to captivate audiences, making it a true classic of the songwriting craft.
Video
Lyrics
Now that I’ve lost everything to you
You say you want to start something new
And it’s breaking my heart you’er leaving
Baby, I’m greaving
But if you want to leave, take good care
Hope you have a lot of nice things to wear
Then a lot of things turn bad out there
Oh baby, baby, it’s a wild world
It’s hard to get by just upon a smile
Oh baby, baby, it’s a wild world
I’ll always remember you like a child, girl
You know I’ve seen a lot of what the world can do
And it’s breaking my heart in two
Because I never want to see you sad, girl
Don’t be a bad girl
But if you want to leave, take good care
Hope you make a lot of nice friends out there
But just remember there’s a lot of bad and beware
Beware
Oh, baby, baby, it’s a wild world
It’s hard to get by just upon a smile
Oh baby, baby, it’s a wild world
And I’ll always remember you like a child, girl
Baby, I love you
But if you want to leave, take good care
Hope you make a lot of nice friends out there
But just remember there’s a lot of bad and beware
Beware
Oh, baby, baby, it’s a wild world
It’s hard to get by just upon a smile
Oh, baby, baby, it’s a wild world
And I’ll always remember you like a child, girl
Oh, baby, baby, it’s a wild world
And it’s hard to get by just upon a smile
Oh, baby, baby, it’s a wild world
And I’ll always remember you like a child, girl