Billy Idol

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Have I told you
Lately that I love you?
If I didn't, darlin'
You see, I'm so sorry
Didn't I reach out
And hold you
In lovin' arms?
Well, if I didn't, oh baby
Well, I'm so sorry

[Chorus]
When I realized that you need love too
Gonna spend my life makin' love to you
Got to be a lover
Have mercy
Forgot to be a lover, babe (Have mercy)
Forgot to be a lover (Have mercy)
Forgot to be a lover
Make it on through to you somehow (Have mercy, baby)
Got to be a lover, babe (Forgot to be a lover)
Woo! Yeah! Woo!

[Verse 2]
Well, did I ask you
Yes, would you come and share
Oh, share
Oh, the burden and the task
That's at love's command?
Didn't I say
All those lovin' special things
That you long to hear?
To show how much I care
[Chorus]
Well, when I realize
That you need love too
I'm gonna spend my life
Makin' love to you
Forgot to be a lover
Have mercy
Well, well I worked all day
As hard as I can
Worked all night, didn't make me a man
(Forgot to be a lover)
Have mercy, ooh
When I realized
That you need love too
Gonna spend my life
Makin' love to you (Forgot to be a lover)
Got to be a lover, babe
Oo, have mercy (Have mercy)
Have mercy, baby (Have mercy, baby)
I'm gonna make it on through
To you somehow
So have mercy (Have mercy, have mercy, baby)

[Verse 3]
Have I told you
Yes, lately that I love you?
If I didn't, oh baby
Yes, I'm so sorry
Ah, but you know I really love you, baby (Love you, baby)
I really love you, baby (Love you, baby)
I really need you, baby (Need you, baby)
I really want you, baby (Want you, baby)
[Chorus]
When I realized
That you need love too
I'm gonna spend my life
Makin' love
Makin' love
Makin' love to you
Well, I worked all day
As hard as I can
Worked all night
It didn't make me a man, babe
(Forgot to be a lover) (Have mercy)
Oo, have mercy, baby (Have mercy)
Have mercy, baby (Have mercy)
Oo, have mercy, baby (Have mercy baby)
Oo, make it on through
Well, when I realized that you need love too
I'm gonna spend my life
Gotta spend my life makin' love to you
Have mercy, baby
Have mercy, baby
I'm gonna love you....Embed

If you're a fan of '80s rock, then you might be familiar with the iconic Billy Idol, an English musician who rose to fame during that era. One of his most popular songs is "To Be a Lover," a lively tune that has been played countless times on the radio and continues to be a favorite among music enthusiasts.

About To Be a Lover

"To Be a Lover" was released in 1986 as part of Billy Idol's album Whiplash Smile. The track was written by William Bell, Booker T. Jones, and Steve Cropper and was actually a cover of William Bell's 1977 song "I Wanna Be Your Main Man." The song was produced by Keith Forsey, who also worked on other popular songs from Billy Idol, like "White Wedding" and "Rebel Yell."

The song's upbeat tempo was a departure from some of Billy Idol's previous tracks, which were often characterized by their punk rock and new wave sound. "To Be a Lover" featured a catchy melody and lyrics that celebrated the joy of being in love. The song was well-received and peaked at number six on the US Billboard Hot 100 Chart, becoming one of Billy Idol's most successful songs.

One of the most memorable aspects of "To Be a Lover" is its music video, which featured a humorous storyline and plenty of dancing. The video opens with Billy Idol playing a detective who is hired by a woman to investigate her unfaithful boyfriend, who is played by comedian Paul Reubens (better known as Pee-wee Herman). The video's playful storyline is a perfect match for the upbeat nature of the song itself.

The music video for "To Be a Lover" was directed by Tobe Hooper, who is perhaps best known for directing horror films like Poltergeist and The Texas Chain Saw Massacre. While the video didn't include any scary elements, it did feature Hooper's signature style of creating suspenseful scenes and interesting camera angles.

Another notable aspect of "To Be a Lover" is its lyrics, which are both catchy and romantic. The chorus of the song repeats the phrase "To be a lover, you gotta be the greatest lover," emphasizing the importance of being passionate and dedicated to your partner. The song's lyrics are a departure from some of Billy Idol's more rebellious tracks, showcasing a softer and more loving side of the musician.

In addition to its commercial success, "To Be a Lover" has also been covered by several other artists over the years. Notable covers include versions by Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Aneka, and La Toya Jackson.

Wrapping Up

In the world of '80s rock, "To Be a Lover" by Billy Idol stands out as a catchy, romantic, and playful hit that continues to be beloved by fans today. Whether you remember hearing the song on the radio during its initial release or discovered it later on, it's hard not to be swept up in the song's infectious melody and feel-good lyrics. From its memorable music video to its impressive chart performance, "To Be a Lover" is a testament to Billy Idol's talent and enduring influence in the music industry.

• Release Date: September 22, 1986
• Artist: Billy Idol