Carly Simon performing “That’s The Way I Always Heard It Should Be” in the United States in 1978

About the song

Carly Simon, a name synonymous with the golden age of singer-songwriters, released her self-titled debut album in 1971. Among the tracks that would catapult her to stardom was the poignant and introspective “That’s The Way I Always Heard It Should Be”. This song, penned by Simon herself, delves into the complexities of romantic relationships and the enduring power of love.

Released at a time when women were seeking greater independence and challenging societal norms, “That’s The Way I Always Heard It Should Be” resonated with audiences of all ages. Simon’s evocative lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love affair that is both passionate and fraught with uncertainty. The song’s opening lines, “I’ve been dreaming of a love so pure and true, That it would never know a flaw,” set the stage for a narrative that explores the idealized notion of love versus the harsh realities of life.

Simon’s distinctive vocal style, characterized by her rich timbre and emotional depth, perfectly complements the song’s lyrical content. Her voice conveys a sense of vulnerability and longing, drawing listeners into the intimate world she has created. The song’s arrangement is simple yet effective, featuring acoustic guitar, piano, and strings that provide a gentle backdrop for Simon’s heartfelt performance.

“That’s The Way I Always Heard It Should Be” is more than just a love song; it’s a poignant reflection on the human experience. Simon’s lyrics explore themes of hope, disappointment, and the enduring power of love. The song’s timeless message has resonated with audiences for decades, making it a classic that continues to captivate listeners of all generations.

Video

Lyrics

My father sits at night with no lights on
His cigarette glows in the dark
The living room is still
I walk by, no remark
I tiptoe past the master bedroom where
My mother reads her magazines
I hear her call sweet dreams
But I forgot how to dream

But you say it’s time we moved in together
And raised a family of our own, you and me
Well, that’s the way I’ve always heard it should be
You want to marry me, we’ll marry

My friends from college, they’re all married now
They have their houses and their lawns
They have their silent noons
Tearful nights, angry dawns
Their children hate them for the things they’re not
They hate themselves for what they are
And yet they drink, they laugh
Close the wound, hide the scar

But you say it’s time we moved in together
And raised a family of our own, you and me
Well, that’s the way I’ve always heard it should be
You want to marry me, we’ll marry

You say we can keep our love alive
Babe, all I know is what I see
The couples cling and claw
And drown in love’s debris
You say we’ll soar like two birds through the clouds
But soon you’ll cage me on your shelf
I’ll never learn to be just me first
By myself

Well okay, it’s time we moved in together
And raised a family of our own, you and me
Well, that’s the way I’ve always heard it should be
You want to marry me, we’ll marry (we’ll marry)