Barry Manilow – Can’t Smile Without You (1978)

About the song

Barry Manilow, the maestro of soft rock and pop, has crafted a timeless masterpiece that has resonated with audiences for decades. “Can’t Smile Without You” is a poignant ballad that explores the depths of love, loss, and the enduring power of memory. Released in 1978 as part of his album “Even Now,” this heartfelt song quickly became a chart-topping hit, solidifying Manilow’s status as a beloved singer-songwriter.

The song’s introspective lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with the absence of a loved one. The opening lines, “I used to think that I was strong,” set the tone for a narrative of vulnerability and emotional turmoil. Manilow’s soulful voice conveys the raw pain and longing that the protagonist experiences. As the song progresses, we witness the narrator’s struggle to find joy and happiness without their beloved by their side.

The melody of “Can’t Smile Without You” is both haunting and uplifting. Manilow’s signature style, characterized by his smooth vocals and the lush orchestration, creates a captivating atmosphere that draws listeners in. The song’s arrangement features a blend of acoustic and electric instruments, with the piano playing a particularly prominent role in conveying the emotional depth of the lyrics.

One of the most striking aspects of “Can’t Smile Without You” is its universal appeal. The song’s themes of love, loss, and longing resonate with people of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you’ve experienced a personal loss or simply appreciate the beauty of a well-crafted ballad, this song is sure to touch your heart.

Over the years, “Can’t Smile Without You” has been covered by numerous artists, including the Bee Gees, Michael Bolton, and the Temptations. These interpretations demonstrate the song’s enduring popularity and its ability to connect with audiences across generations.

In conclusion, Barry Manilow’s “Can’t Smile Without You” is a timeless classic that continues to captivate listeners with its poignant lyrics, beautiful melody, and universal themes. This heartfelt ballad serves as a reminder of the power of love and the enduring impact that certain people have on our lives.

Video

Lyrics

You know I can’t smile without you
I can’t smile without you
I can’t laugh and I can’t sing
I’m finding it hard to do anything
You see, I feel sad when you’re sad
I feel glad when you’re glad
If you only knew what I’m going through
I just can’t smile without you

You came along just like a song
And brighten my day
Who would have believed that you were part of a dream
Now it all seems light years away

And now you know I can’t smile without you (no I can’t)
I can’t smile without you
I can’t laugh and I can’t sing
I’m finding it hard to do anything
You see, I feel sad when you’re sad
I feel glad when you’re glad
If you only knew what I’m going through
I just can’t smile

Now some people say
Happiness takes so very long to find
Well, I’m finding it hard
Leaving your love behind me

And you see, I can’t smile without you (no I can’t)
I can’t smile without you
I can’t laugh and I can’t sing
I’m finding it hard to do anything
You see I feel glad when you’re glad (I feel)
I feel sad when you’re sad
If you only knew what I’m going through
I just can’t smile without you (can’t smile without you)

(Can’t smile without you)