About the song
Carly Simon’s poignant ballad “That’s The Way I Always Heard It Should Be” is a timeless reflection on love and societal expectations, resonating with listeners through its heartfelt lyrics and emotive melody. Released in 1971, this introspective track served as the lead single for Carly Simon’s debut self-titled album, “Carly Simon.”
Written by Carly Simon and Jacob Brackman, “That’s The Way I Always Heard It Should Be” received critical acclaim upon its release, earning praise for its raw honesty and vulnerability. While it didn’t achieve significant chart success, its impact on listeners was profound, solidifying Carly Simon’s reputation as a gifted singer-songwriter.
The song’s exploration of themes such as marriage, family, and societal pressure struck a chord with audiences, sparking conversations about relationships and personal fulfillment. Its gentle melody and evocative lyrics continue to resonate with listeners, making it a cherished favorite among Carly Simon’s repertoire.
Despite its initial reception, “That’s The Way I Always Heard It Should Be” has endured as a timeless classic, earning recognition as one of Carly Simon’s most beloved songs. Its inclusion in various compilations and playlists attests to its lasting impact on listeners, who continue to find solace and reflection in its heartfelt message.
Whether you’re rediscovering Carly Simon’s music or hearing it for the first time, “That’s The Way I Always Heard It Should Be” invites you to explore the complexities of love and relationships with empathy and understanding. So sit back, listen closely, and let Carly Simon’s soulful voice guide you through the intricate landscape of the human heart.
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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 O.K., 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.