About The Song
“When I Need You” is a famous song written by Albert Hammond and Carole Bayer Sager. The song first appeared on Hammond’s 1976 album When I Need You. Leo Sayer’s version of the song was produced by Richard Perry and became a massive hit worldwide, reaching number 1 on the UK Singles Chart for three weeks in February 1977. It was also a success in the US, reaching #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in March 1977.
The song describes a person who is far away from home and longing for their loved one. The lyrics express the deep longing and the need for connection, even in the face of distance. Sayer sang this song with conviction, and the melody accompanied the lyrics, making it an emotional listening experience for many listeners. The emotional connection that the song created became a way for people to connect and find solace during tough times.
Lyrics
When I need you
I just close my eyes and I'm with you
And all that I so wanna give you
It's only a heartbeat away
When I need love
I hold out my hands and I touch love
I never knew there was so much love
Keeping me warm night and day
Miles and miles of empty space in between us
The telephone can't take the place of your smile
But you know I won't be travelin' forever
It's cold out, but hold out, and do like I do
When I need you
I just close my eyes and I'm with you
And all that I so wanna give you, babe
It's only a heartbeat away
It's not easy when the road is your driver
Honey that's a heavy load that we bear
But you know I won't be traveling a lifetime
It's cold out, but hold out, and do like I do
Oh, I need you
[Instrumental Interlude]
When I need love
I hold out my hands and I touch love
I never knew there was so much love
Keeping me warm night and day
When I need you
I just close my eyes
And you're right here by my side
Keeping me warm night and day
I just hold out my hands
I just hold out my hand
And I'm with you darlin'
Yes, I'm with you darlin'
All I wanna give you
It's only a heartbeat away
Oh, I need you darling