About the song
“You Belong to Me,” a timeless classic penned by Carly Simon and Michael McDonald, has cemented its place in music history through its evocative lyrics and soulful melodies. Originally recorded by The Doobie Brothers for their album “Livin’ on the Fault Line” in 1977, the song found even greater fame when Carly Simon released her rendition as the lead single from her album “Boys in the Trees” (1978).
Simon’s version of “You Belong to Me” soared to the top echelons of the Billboard charts, peaking at No. 6 on the Pop Singles chart and No. 4 on the Adult Contemporary chart. Its enduring popularity was underscored by its 18-week stay on the Pop Singles chart and 19 weeks on the Adult Contemporary chart. The track’s success was further recognized with a Grammy nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance at the 21st Annual Grammy Awards in 1979.
Critically acclaimed for its captivating vocals and the memorable saxophone solo by David Sanborn, “You Belong to Me” seamlessly blends Carly Simon’s distinctive style with the soulful essence of The Doobie Brothers’ original rendition. Cash Box lauded the song’s vocal performances and the enchanting saxophone solo, highlighting its dream-like quality.
Beyond its chart success and critical acclaim, “You Belong to Me” has left an indelible mark on popular culture. It has been featured prominently in Carly Simon’s compilations, such as “Clouds in My Coffee” (1995) and “Reflections: Carly Simon’s Greatest Hits” (2004), solidifying its status as one of her signature songs. The track also found its way into the soundtrack of romantic comedy films like “Desperately Seeking Susan” (1985) and “Little Black Book” (2004), enhancing its cultural resonance.
In 2009, Carly Simon revisited “You Belong to Me” on her album “Never Been Gone,” offering a fresh perspective with guest vocalist John Forté. This acoustic rendition reaffirmed the song’s enduring appeal and showcased its ability to resonate across different generations.
With contributions from notable musicians like Richard Tee on Fender Rhodes electric piano, David Sanborn on saxophone, and backing vocals by James Taylor, “You Belong to Me” stands as a testament to Carly Simon’s musical prowess and enduring legacy in the realm of classic pop ballads. Its ability to evoke nostalgia while remaining relevant underscores its timeless allure and universal appeal to music lovers worldwide.
Video
Lyrics
Why’d you tell me this
Were you looking for my reaction
What do you need to know
Don’t you know I’ll always be your girl
You don’t have to prove to me
You’re beautiful to strangers
I’ve got loving eyes
Of my own
You belong to me
Tell her, tell her you were fooling
You belong to me
You don’t even know her
You belong to me
Tell her that I love you
You belong to me
You belong to me
Can it be, honey
You’re not sure
You belong to me
Thought we’d closed the book
Locked the door
You don’t have to prove to me
That you’re beautiful to strangers
I’ve got loving eyes of my own, of my own
And I can tell
I can tell darling
You belong to me
You belong to me
You belong to me
Baby, I really love you
You belong to me
Tell her, tell her
Tell her she don’t know you
You belong to me
You belong to me
You belong to me
You belong to me
Cause you belong to me