Donna Summer

Lyrics

[ACT I - MacArthur Park]

[Verse 1]
Spring was never waiting for us 'til
It ran one step ahead
As we followed in the dance

Between the parted pages
We were pressed
In love's hot, fevered iron
Like a striped pair of pants

[Chorus]
MacArthur's Park is melting in the dark
All the sweet green icing flowing down
Someone left the cake out in the rain
I don't think that I can take it
'Cause it took so long to bake it
And I'll never have that recipe again
Oh no

[Verse 2]
I recall the yellow cotton dress
Foaming like a wave
On the ground beneath your knees
Birds like tender babies in your hands
And the old men playing
Chinese checkers by the trees
[Chorus]
MacArthur's Park is melting in the dark
All the sweet green icing flowing down
Someone left the cake out in the rain
I don't think that I can take it
'cause it took so long to bake it
And I'll never have that recipe again
Oh no

[Instrumental Break]

[Verse 3]
There will be another song for me
And I will sing it
There will be another dream for me
Someone will bring it
I will drink the wine while it is warm
And never let you catch me looking at the sun, yeah
And after all the loves of my life
After all the love's in my life
You'll still be the one
I will take my life into my hands
And I will use it
I will win the worship in their eyes
And I will lose it
I will have the things that I desire
And my passion flow like rivers through the sky
Oh, and after all the love's of my life, yeah
After all the love's in my life
You'll still be the one
And I'll ask myself why, yeah
[Instrumental Break]

[Chorus]
MacArthur's Park is melting in the dark
All the sweet green icing flowing down
Someone left my cake out in the rain
I don't think that I can take it
'cause it took so long to bake it
And I'll never have that recipe again
Oh no, oh, oh, oh

[Instrumental Break]

[ACT II - One of a Kind]

[Verse 1]
You're one of a kind
Gotta have ya
Well, you're one of a kind
I need to have ya

[Refrain]
Right from the start
You tore me apart
You took the best part of my heart, ah
Body and soul
You took me out of control
You stole the best part of my heart, oh, ooh, hoo
[Verse 2]
You're one of a kind
You got magic
I know you're one of a kind
Baby, you're outstanding

[Refrain]
Right from the start
You tore me apart
You took the best part of my heart, ah
Body and soul
You took me out of control
You stole the best part of my heart, oh, ooh, hoo

[Instrumental Break]

[Refrain]
Right from the start
You tore me apart
You took the best part of my heart, ah
Body and soul
You took me out of control
You stole the best part of my heart, oh

[Instrumental Break]

[ACT III - Heaven Knows]

[Verse 1]
Baby please (Baby please), please don't take your love from me
(Please don't take your love from me)
I am yours forever more (Ever more), 'til eternity
Silently (So silently), listen to the words I say
(Listen to the words I say)
I'm not talking just for play (Just for play), listen to me please
(Won't you listen to me)

[Chorus]
Heaven knows it's not the way it should be
And Heaven knows it's not the way it could be
And Don't you know there's no need to leave
Heaven knows I never wanna leave you
Heaven knows I only wanna please you
Don't you know love is what I need

[Verse 2]
Down inside (Down inside), don't get caught with foolish pride
(Don't get caught with foolish pride)
Put all the other things aside (Things aside), there's only you and me
(You and me, you and)
Believe in us (Believe in us), we were always meant to be
(Always meant to be)
Me for you and you for me (You for me), 'til eternity
('Til eternity)

[Chorus]
Heaven knows it's not the way it should be
And Heaven knows it's not the way it could be
And don't you know there's no need to leave
Heaven knows I only wanna love you
And Heaven knows I never wanna lose you
Don't you know love is meant to be

[Outro]
Heaven knows it's not the way it should be
(Heaven knows)
And it's not your style, stop with the pretending
Come on now, hear me when I cry

[ACT IV - MacArthur Park (Reprise)]

[Chorus]
MacArthur's Park is melting in the dark
All the sweet green icing flowing down
Someone left my cake out in the rain
I don't think that I can take it
'Cause it took so long to bake it
And I'll never have that recipe again
Oh no, oh, oh, oh yeah

[Instrumental]

MacArthur Park Suite is a remarkable and iconic song by the legendary artist Donna Summer. Released in 1978 as part of her album "Live and More," this song quickly became one of her most recognizable and celebrated works. With its intricate composition, powerful vocals, and emotional depth, MacArthur Park Suite stands as a testament to Donna Summer's immense talent and musical prowess.

About MacArthur Park Suite

MacArthur Park Suite is a mesmerizing 18-minute musical journey that encapsulates the essence of Donna Summer's artistry. The song begins with a haunting piano melody, setting a somber and reflective tone. As the music builds, Donna's vocals gradually emerge, carrying a sense of longing and vulnerability.

The lyrics of MacArthur Park Suite depict a poignant story of lost love and heartbreak, exploring the complexities of human emotions. The song's narrative centers around a park, where the protagonist reminisces about a failed relationship and the memories it holds. Through evocative imagery and soulful delivery, Donna Summer skillfully conveys the profound sadness and yearning that permeate the song.

One of the standout features of MacArthur Park Suite is its dynamic and elaborate instrumentation. The song seamlessly transitions between different musical sections, each characterized by its own unique arrangement and melody. The composition skillfully fuses elements of disco, pop, and classical music, creating a rich and diverse sonic landscape.

MacArthur Park Suite showcases Donna Summer's incredible vocal range and expressive capabilities. Her voice effortlessly glides from delicate and vulnerable whispers to soaring, powerful notes. Her emotive delivery enhances the song's emotional impact, drawing listeners into the depths of the protagonist's heartache.

Although MacArthur Park Suite is a lengthy composition, its engrossing melodies, captivating lyrics, and Donna Summer's commanding presence ensure that listeners remain enthralled throughout. The song's structure allows for moments of quiet introspection juxtaposed with climactic crescendos, creating a compelling and dynamic listening experience.

Furthermore, MacArthur Park Suite has had a lasting impact on popular culture and music. Its intricate arrangement and genre-blending approach have influenced numerous artists over the years, shaping the landscape of contemporary music. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and the enduring legacy of Donna Summer as an influential artist.

In essence, MacArthur Park Suite is a masterpiece that showcases Donna Summer's exceptional musicality and emotional depth. Its intricate composition, soul-stirring lyrics, and powerful vocals combine to create a truly unforgettable listening experience. Whether you are a die-hard fan of disco or simply appreciate exceptional music, MacArthur Park Suite is a song that deserves a place in your playlist.

• Release Date: September 24, 1978
• Artist: Donna Summer