About the song
“Love of the Common People” was originally written by John Hurley and Ronnie Wilkins, and Young’s rendition brought a fresh perspective to the song with its blend of pop and soul elements. The lyrics of the song resonate with themes of resilience and perseverance in the face of hardship, portraying the everyday struggles and triumphs of ordinary people.
Upon its release, “Love of the Common People” achieved significant chart success in the UK, where it peaked at number 2 on the UK Singles Chart. The song’s popularity was bolstered by its relatable lyrics and Young’s soulful delivery, which struck a chord with audiences across the country.
Paul Young’s debut album “No Parlez,” which featured “Love of the Common People” as a standout track, received widespread acclaim for its fusion of pop, soul, and R&B influences. The album’s success propelled Young into the spotlight as a promising new talent in the British music scene of the early 1980s.
As you listen to “Love of the Common People,” allow yourself to be captivated by Paul Young’s soulful vocals and the song’s timeless message of resilience and hope. It remains a classic example of how music can inspire and uplift, resonating with listeners of all ages and backgrounds.
Video
Lyrics
Living on free food tickets
Water in the milk from a hole in the roof where the rain came through
What can you do, hmm?
Tears from your little sister
Crying because she doesn’t have a dress without a patch for the party to go
But you know she’ll get by
‘Cause she’s living in the love of the common people
Smiles from the heart of a family man (a-ah-e-ah)
Daddy’s gonna buy you a dream to cling to
Mama’s gonna love you just as much as she can (It’s so cold)
And she can
It’s a good thing you don’t have a bus fare (it’s a good thing, ah-chh)
It would fall through the hole in your pocket and you’d lose it in the snow on the ground (a-ah-e-ah)
You got to walk into town to find a job (what’s enough?)
Tryin’ to keep your hands warm (it’s so cold)
When the hole in your shoe let the snow come through and chill you to the bone (brr-cha)
Somehow you’d better go home where it’s warm
Where you can live in the love of the common people
Smile from the heart of a family man (a-ah-e-ah)
Daddy’s gonna buy you a dream to cling to
Mama’s gonna love you just as much as she can (it’s so cold)
And she can
Living on a dream ain’t easy
But the closer the knit the tighter the fit (closer the knit)
And the chills stay away (a-ah-e-ah)
‘Cause we take ’em in stride for family pride
You know that faith is in your foundation (ooh-na, ooh-na, ooh-na, ooh-na)
With a whole lot of love and a warm conversation
But don’t forget to pray (forget to pray)
It’s makin’ it strong, where you belong
And we’re living in the love of the common people
Smiles from the heart of a family man (good to know)
Daddy’s gonna buy you a dream to cling to
Mama’s gonna love you just as much as she can (it’s so cold)
And she can
Yes, we’re living in the love of the common people
Smile’s from the heart of a family man (a-ah-e-ah)
Daddy’s gonna buy you a dream to cling to
Mama’s gonna love you just as much as she can (it’s so cold)
Living in the love of the common people
Smiles from the heart of a family man (good to know)
Daddy’s gonna buy you a dream to cling to
Mama’s gonna love you just as much as she can (it’s so cold)
Living in the love of the common people
Smile’s really hard on a family man (a-ah-e-ah)
Daddy’s gonna buy you a dream to cling to
Mama’s gonna love you just as much as she can
And she can