Phil Collins

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
How can I just let you walk away?
Just let you leave without a trace
When I stand here taking every breath
With you? Ooh, ooh

[Refrain]
You're the only one who really knew me at all

[Verse 2]
How can you just walk away from me
When all I can do is watch you leave?
‘Cause we've shared the laughter and the pain
And even shared the tears

[Refrain]
You're the only one who really knew me at all

[Chorus]
So, take a look at me now
Well, there's just an empty space
And there's nothin' left here to remind me
Just the memory of your face
Ooh, take a look at me now
Well, there's just an empty space
And you comin' back to me is against the odds
And that's what I've got to face
[Verse 3]
I wish I could just make you turn around
Turn around and see me cry
There's so much I need to say to you
So many reasons why

[Refrain]
You're the only one who really knew me at all

[Chorus]
So, take a look at me now
Well, there's just an empty space
And there's nothin' left here to remind me
Just the memory of your face
Now, take a look at me now
‘Cause there's just an empty space
But to wait for you is all I can do
And that's what I've got to face
Take a good look at me now
‘Cause I'll still be standin' here
And you comin' back to me is against all odds
It's the chance I've gotta take

[Outro]
Take a look at me now

Against All Odds (Take A Look At Me Now) by Phil Collins is an emotional power ballad that revolves around a narrator's plea for another chance to win back his ex-girlfriend. The song depicts the aftermath of a break-up and the struggles of the narrator as he battles the feeling of loneliness while his ex-girlfriend chooses to move on.

Released in 1984, the song became one of Phil Collins' biggest hits, reaching #2 in the UK and spending three weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US. It won the 1985 Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male.

About Against All Odds (Take A Look At Me Now)

The song Against All Odds (Take A Look At Me Now) was written by Phil Collins himself for the 1984 film Against All Odds. The song's inspiration came from an unreleased take from his 1981 album Face Value. The heartbreaking lyrics of the song tell the story of a man who is reaching out to his ex-girlfriend, possibly for the last time.

The opening line of the song draws the listener in immediately, "How can I just let you walk away, just let you leave without a trace?" The line pulls at the heartstrings and establishes the narrative of the song. Throughout the song, the narrator shares his feelings of regret and longing, trying to convince his ex-girlfriend to give him one more chance.

The song contains powerful lyrics such as "You coming back to me is against all odds, and that's what I've got to face," which reinforce the futile nature of the narrator's attempts. He knows that his odds are slim to none, but he still hopes against hope for reconciliation.

Phil Collins' emotive vocals combined with the song's haunting melody create a powerful impact on the listener. The slow and melodic pace of the song adds to the emotional atmosphere, pulling the listener deeper into the plight of the narrator.

The song's universal theme of heartbreak and the desire for a second chance has resonated with audiences for years, cementing its place as one of the most iconic ballads in music history.

The success of Against All Odds (Take A Look At Me Now) can be attributed not only to its poignant lyrics and heart-wrenching melody but also to its high-profile use in popular culture. The song has been featured in numerous movies, including the 2013 blockbuster movie The Hangover Part III, and has been covered by many artists over the years, including Mariah Carey and Westlife.

In summary, Against All Odds (Take A Look At Me Now) is a deeply emotional ballad that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. Phil Collins' masterful storytelling and emotional delivery have cemented the song's place in music history as one of the most iconic songs of all time.

• Release Date: March 26, 1984
• Artist: Phil Collins