Pretenders

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Oh, why you look so sad?
Tears are in your eyes
Come on and come to me now
Don't be ashamed to cry
Let me see you through
'Cause I've seen the dark side too

[Pre-Chorus]
When the night falls on you
You don't know what to do
Nothin' you confess, could make me love you less

[Chorus]
I'll stand by you, I'll stand by you
Won't let nobody hurt you
I'll stand by you

[Verse 2]
So if you're mad, get mad
Don't hold it all inside
Come on and talk to me now
Hey, what you got to hide?
I get angry too
Well I'm a lot like you
[Pre-Chorus]
When you're standing at the crossroads
Don't know which path to choose
Let me come along
'Cause even if you're wrong

[Chorus]
I'll stand by you, I'll stand by you
Won't let nobody hurt you
I'll stand by you
Take me in, into your darkest hour
And I'll never desert you
I'll stand by you

[Instrumental Break]

[Pre-Chorus]
And when, when the night falls on you, baby
You're feeling all alone
You won't be on your own

[Chorus]
I'll stand by you, I'll stand by you
Won't let nobody hurt you
I'll stand by you
Take me in, into your darkest hour
And I'll never desert you
I'll stand by you, I'll stand by you
Won't let nobody hurt you
I'll stand by you
Yeah
[Outro]
Won't let nobody hurt you
I'll stand by you
I'll stand by you
Won't let nobody hurt you
I'll stand by you
No, no, no, no, no
Take me in, into your darkest hour
And I'll never desert you
I'll stand by you
I'll stand by you
Won't let nobody hurt you
I'll stand by you

Do you ever find yourself feeling lost or alone? In those moments, music has a way of reaching deep into our souls and offering comfort and solace. "I'll Stand by You" by Pretenders is one of those songs that can serve as a resolute companion during difficult times. With its heartfelt lyrics and passionate delivery, it has become an anthem for unwavering support and loyalty. Let's dive into the essence of this heartfelt ballad and explore the story behind it.

About I'll Stand by You

Released in 1994, "I'll Stand by You" is a classic song by the British-American rock band Pretenders. This emotional ballad was written by Chrissie Hynde, the band's lead vocalist and songwriter, along with renowned songwriters Tom Kelly and Billy Steinberg. The song's powerful message of solidarity and unwavering support has resonated with listeners around the world.

At its core, "I'll Stand by You" is a song about compassion, empathy, and unconditional love. It speaks to the human desire for connection and reassurance in times of darkness. The lyrics remind us that no matter what challenges we face, we are not alone. The song encourages us to believe in the strength of our relationships and the power of standing by each other's side.

Chrissie Hynde's soulful and heartfelt delivery adds an extra layer of depth and emotion to the song. Her distinctive voice carries a raw vulnerability, making the lyrics even more impactful. The Pretenders' musical arrangement complements the lyrical content perfectly, creating an atmosphere of both tenderness and resilience.

The song's opening lines immediately strike a chord, capturing the essence of its message: "Oh, why you look so sad? Tears are in your eyes. Come on and come to me now. Don't be ashamed to cry; let me see you through." As these words unfold, they invite the listener to open up, to lean on someone for support without judgment. It's a call for empathy, urging us to be there for one another in times of need.

Throughout the song, the lyrics touch on universal themes of friendship, love, and personal struggles. They paint a picture of someone who promises to stay by your side, no matter the circumstances. The chorus rings out with determination and conviction, asserting, "I'll stand by you. Won't let nobody hurt you. I'll stand by you." It's a resolute declaration, a promise to protect and support, wrapped in a melodic embrace.

The emotional impact of "I'll Stand by You" extends beyond personal relationships. Over the years, the song has found its place in numerous important moments and causes. It has been embraced by different communities as a symbol of unity and resilience in times of adversity. Its message of standing together in the face of hardship has made it an anthem of support and compassion.

And as with any timeless song, "I'll Stand by You" has touched the lives of countless individuals, becoming a source of comfort during difficult times. Its universal appeal lies in its ability to foster connection and understanding. The song reminds us that we all experience moments of vulnerability, but it is in these moments that the power of compassion and support becomes truly profound.

So, the next time you find yourself in need of a guiding light, a song to provide solace, let "I'll Stand by You" be there for you. Let its lyrics and melody wrap around you like a warm embrace, assuring you that you're not alone. For in the realm of music, there exists a powerful magic that can heal hearts and remind us of the unbreakable bonds we share.

• Release Date: July 21, 1994
• Artist: Pretenders