About the song
David Gates’ “Everything I Own,” a poignant ballad released in 1972 by the soft rock ensemble Bread, is a testament to the enduring power of music to evoke profound emotions. Initially perceived as a love song about a broken relationship, the track’s true meaning, as revealed by Gates himself, lies in its heartfelt tribute to his late father.
Gates penned this song in memory of his father, who passed away in 1963 before witnessing his son’s musical success with Bread. The lyrics, imbued with a sense of gratitude and loss, express the depth of Gates’ affection for his father and the profound impact he had on his life. The lines “You sheltered me from harm, kept me warm, you gave my life to me, set me free” encapsulate the love and admiration Gates felt for his father.
The title, “Everything I Own,” holds a personal significance for Gates. It references a time when he sent his mother an orchid for her birthday, a gesture that deeply touched his father. The elder Gates expressed his pride and love by suggesting that his son could have had “anything she owned” in return. This anecdote underscores the enduring bond between Gates and his father and the profound impact their relationship had on his life.
While the lyrics of “Everything I Own” can be interpreted as a love song, Gates’ original intent was to honor his father. The song’s emotional resonance and relatable themes have contributed to its enduring popularity. Its ability to transcend genres and generations is a testament to the timeless quality of Gates’ songwriting and the profound impact that music can have on our lives.
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Lyrics
You sheltered me from harm
Kept me warm, kept me warm
You gave my life to me
Set me free, set me free
The finest years I ever knew
Were all the years I had with you
And I would give anything I own
I’d give up my life, my heart, my home
I would give everything I own
Just to have you back again
You taught me how to love
What it’s of, what it’s of
You never said too much
But still you showed the way
And I knew from watching you
Nobody else could ever know
The part of me that can’t let go
And I would give anything I own
I’d give up my life, my heart, my home
I would give everything I own
Just to have you back again
Is there someone you know
Your loving them so
But taking them all for granted?
You may lose them one day
Someone takes them away
And they don’t hear the words you long to say
I would give anything I own
I’d give up my life, my heart, my home
I would give everything I own
Just to have you back again
Just to touch you once again