About the song
Carole King’s “You’ve Got a Friend” is a timeless ballad that has captivated audiences for decades. Released in 1971 as the opening track on her critically acclaimed album “Tapestry,” the song became a number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, solidifying King’s status as one of the most influential singer-songwriters of her generation.
The song’s intro immediately sets the stage with a simple yet evocative piano melody. King’s vocals then come in, delivering the lyrics with a warmth and sincerity that perfectly complements the song’s message of friendship and support. The lyrics explore themes of loyalty, empathy, and the importance of having someone to turn to in times of need.
One of the song’s most memorable aspects is its heartfelt chorus, in which King sings, “You’ve got a friend.” The chorus’s repetitive refrain further reinforces the song’s central theme of friendship and solidarity.
The song’s production is stripped-down and intimate, with King’s piano and vocals taking center stage. The arrangement allows the song’s message to shine through, creating a raw and emotional atmosphere.
“You’ve Got a Friend” is a testament to the power of music to connect people on a deep emotional level. Its timeless melody, evocative lyrics, and King’s soulful performance have made it a beloved classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to King’s talent and her ability to create music that transcends time and genre.
Video
Lyrics
When you’re down and troubled
And you need some lovin’ care
And nothin’, nothin’ is goin’ right
Close your eyes and think of me
And soon I will be there
To brighten up even your darkest night
You just call out my name
And you know, wherever I am
I’ll come runnin’
To see you again
Winter, spring, summer or fall
All you have to do is call
And I’ll be there
You’ve got a friend
If the sky above you
Grows dark and full of clouds
And that old north wind begins to blow
Keep your head together
And call my name out loud
Soon you’ll hear me knockin’ at your door
You just call out my name
And you know, wherever I am
I’ll come runnin’, runnin’, yeah, yeah
To see you again
Winter, spring, summer or fall
All you have to do is call
And I’ll be there, yes, I will
Now, ain’t it good to know that you’ve got a friend
When people can be so cold?
They’ll hurt you, yes, and desert you
And take your soul if you let them
Oh, but don’t you let them
You just call out my name
And you know, wherever I am
I’ll come runnin’, runnin’, yeah, yeah
To see you again
Winter, spring, summer or fall
All you have to do is call
And I’ll be there, yes, I will
You’ve got a friend
You’ve got a friend
Ain’t it good to know you’ve got a friend
Ain’t it good to know, ain’t it good to know
Ain’t it good to know
You’ve got a friend
Oh, yeah, now, you’ve got a friend
Yeah baby, you’ve got a friend
Oh, yeah, you’ve got a friend