About the song
“You Belong to Me,” co-written by Carly Simon and Michael McDonald, stands as a classic in the singer-songwriter’s repertoire, celebrated for its soulful rendition and enduring popularity. Initially recorded by Michael McDonald’s band, The Doobie Brothers, for their album “Livin’ on the Fault Line” in 1977, the song gained prominence when Carly Simon released her version on her album “Boys in the Trees” in 1978.
Carly Simon’s interpretation of “You Belong to Me” quickly became a chart-topping success, reaching number 6 on the Billboard Pop Singles chart and peaking at number 4 on the Adult Contemporary chart. The song’s lush arrangement, complemented by a memorable saxophone solo, captured the essence of Simon’s distinctive vocal style, earning her critical acclaim and a Grammy nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance at the 21st Annual Grammy Awards in 1979.
Highlighted by Cash Box for its compelling lead vocals and harmonies, “You Belong to Me” seamlessly blended Simon’s artistry with The Doobie Brothers’ rock influences, creating a mesmerizing, dream-like atmosphere. Its inclusion in various compilations and retrospectives over the years, such as “Clouds in My Coffee,” “Anthology,” and “Reflections: Carly Simon’s Greatest Hits,” underscores its enduring appeal and significance in Simon’s discography.
Beyond its musical accolades, “You Belong to Me” has found a place in popular culture, featured prominently in romantic comedy films like “Desperately Seeking Susan” (1985) and “Little Black Book” (2004). It also graced Carly Simon’s live performances, including her 1987 HBO concert special “Live from Martha’s Vineyard” and subsequent album “Greatest Hits Live” (1988).
In 2009, Carly Simon revisited “You Belong to Me” with a re-recorded acoustic version featuring John Forté for her album “Never Been Gone,” showcasing the song’s timeless appeal and Simon’s enduring ability to captivate audiences with her heartfelt delivery and lyrical depth. As one of Carly Simon’s signature songs, “You Belong to Me” continues to resonate with listeners, embodying the essence of her musical legacy and storytelling prowess.
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Lyrics
Why’d you tell me this
Were you looking for my reaction
What do you need to know
Don’t you know I’ll always be your girl
You don’t have to prove to me
You’re beautiful to strangers
I’ve got loving eyes
Of my own
You belong to me
Tell her, tell her you were fooling
You belong to me
You don’t even know her
You belong to me
Tell her that I love you
You belong to me
You belong to me
Can it be, honey
You’re not sure
You belong to me
Thought we’d closed the book
Locked the door
You don’t have to prove to me
That you’re beautiful to strangers
I’ve got loving eyes of my own, of my own
And I can tell
I can tell darling
You belong to me
You belong to me
You belong to me
Baby, I really love you
You belong to me
Tell her, tell her
Tell her she don’t know you
You belong to me
You belong to me
You belong to me
You belong to me
Cause you belong to me