About the song
Harry Nilsson’s “Without You” is a timeless ballad that has resonated with audiences for decades. Released in 1972 as part of his album *Nilsson Schmilsson*, the song is a poignant exploration of heartbreak and loss. Nilsson’s soulful vocals, coupled with the song’s melancholic melody, create a powerful and emotionally evocative listening experience.
The song’s lyrics delve into the depths of despair, painting a vivid picture of a person grappling with the absence of a loved one. Nilsson’s raw and vulnerable delivery conveys the intensity of his emotions, making the listener feel a sense of empathy and connection. The song’s refrain, “Without you, I’m just a ship without a sail,” is particularly poignant, emphasizing the emptiness and directionlessness that accompanies heartbreak.
The musical arrangement of “Without You” is equally striking. The piano accompaniment, played by Nilsson himself, provides a haunting and intimate backdrop for the vocals. The gentle strumming of the acoustic guitar adds a touch of warmth and melancholy. The song’s simplicity is its strength, allowing Nilsson’s voice and the lyrics to take center stage.
“Without You” has become a standard in popular music, with countless artists covering the song over the years. Nilsson’s original version remains the definitive interpretation, capturing the raw emotion and vulnerability that make the song so enduring. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level, reminding us of the universal experience of love, loss, and longing.
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Lyrics
No, I can’t forget this evening
Or your face as you were leaving
But I guess that’s just the way the story goes
You always smile but in your eyes your sorrow shows
Yes, it shows
No, I can’t forget tomorrow
When I think of all my sorrow
When I had you there but then I let you go
And now it’s only fair that I should let you know
What you should know
I can’t live if living is without you
I can’t live, I can’t give any more
Can’t live if living is without you
I can’t give, I can’t give any more
Well, I can’t forget this evening
Or your face as you were leaving
But I guess that’s just the way the story goes
You always smile but in your eyes your sorrow shows
Yes, it shows
Can’t live if living is without you
I can’t live, I can’t give anymore
I can’t live if living is without you
I can’t live, I can’t give anymore
Living is without you