Barry Manilow – Can’t Smile Without

About the song

“Can’t Smile Without You,” a heartwarming ballad cherished by audiences worldwide, traces its origins to a collaboration between songwriters Christian Arnold, David Martin, and Geoff Morrow. Initially released as a solo single by David Martin in 1975, the song gained iconic status through Barry Manilow’s rendition in 1977, prominently featured on his 1978 album ‘Even Now.’

The inspiration behind “Can’t Smile Without You” stemmed from Martin’s personal experiences, particularly his affection for a woman named Debbie, who graced the song’s original cover alongside him. Manilow’s version, characterized by its gentle whistle introduction and building intensity, struck a chord with listeners, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart and peaking at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Lyrically, the song explores themes of love and longing, with Manilow’s rendition differing slightly from earlier versions by artists like the Carpenters. The song’s enduring popularity is underscored by its inclusion on various compilation albums and Manilow’s live performances, where he often invites audience members to join him in singing this beloved tune as a duet.

Beyond its chart success, “Can’t Smile Without You” has left an indelible mark on popular culture. Its melody and sentimentality have resonated across generations, earning it a place in the annals of classic pop music. The song’s influence even reached legal circles when it became embroiled in a plagiarism lawsuit against George Michael’s “Last Christmas” in the mid-1980s, highlighting its recognizable chord sequence and enduring appeal.

As a testament to its timeless quality, “Can’t Smile Without You” continues to evoke smiles and nostalgia, embodying the universal experience of yearning and devotion through its heartfelt lyrics and memorable melody. Its enduring presence in the repertoire of both Barry Manilow and music enthusiasts worldwide cements its status as a cherished classic.

Video

Lyrics

You know I can’t smile without you
I can’t smile without you
I can’t laugh and I can’t sing
I’m findin’ it hard to do anything

You see I feel sad when you’re sad
I feel glad when you’re glad
If you only knew what I’m goin’ through
I just can’t smile without you

You came along just like a song
And brightened my day
Who’da believed that you were part of a dream?
Now it all seems light years away

And now you know I can’t smile without you
I can’t smile without you
I can’t laugh and I can’t sing
I’m findin’ it hard to do anything

You see, I feel sad when you’re sad
I feel glad when you’re glad
If you only knew what I’m goin’ through
I just can’t smile without you

Now some people say happiness takes so very long to find
Well I’m finding it hard leavin’ your love behind me

And you see I can’t smile without you
I can’t smile without you
I can’t laugh and I can’t sing
I’m findin’ it hard to do anything

You see I feel glad when you’re glad
I feel sad when you’re sad
If you only knew what I’m goin’ through
I just can’t smile without you…