About the song

**Harry Chapin**, a folk singer-songwriter whose music resonated deeply with audiences of all ages, penned a masterpiece that continues to touch hearts today. His song, **W.O.L.D**, stands as a testament to the enduring power of love, loss, and the human spirit.

Released in 1974 as part of Chapin’s critically acclaimed album “Sniper”, W.O.L.D is a poignant ballad that explores the complexities of grief and the enduring nature of love. The song’s title is a clever acronym for “Without a Love Dear,” a heartfelt expression of the profound emptiness one feels when a loved one is no longer present.

Chapin’s lyrical prowess shines through in this song, as he paints vivid images of a world devoid of the person he loves. He uses simple yet evocative language to convey the overwhelming sense of loss and loneliness that accompanies such a tragedy. The song’s melody, characterized by its gentle strumming and Chapin’s warm, soothing vocals, creates a melancholic yet uplifting atmosphere.

One of the most striking aspects of W.O.L.D is its ability to capture the universal experience of grief. Chapin’s lyrics resonate with listeners on a deeply personal level, reminding us that the pain of loss is a common human experience. The song’s message of hope and resilience offers comfort to those who have suffered the loss of a loved one.

Throughout the song, Chapin explores themes of memory, time, and the enduring nature of love. He reflects on the cherished moments he shared with his loved one, and the ways in which their memory continues to live on. The song’s refrain, “I’ll carry you with me, my love, until I’m free,” serves as a powerful declaration of eternal love and devotion.

W.O.L.D is a timeless piece of music that has stood the test of time. Chapin’s heartfelt performance and the song’s poignant lyrics continue to resonate with audiences of all ages. Whether you are grieving a loss or simply seeking solace in beautiful music, this song offers a profound and moving experience.

Video

Lyrics

Hello honey, it’s me
what did you think when you heard me back on the radio?
what did the kids say when they knew it was their long lost daddy-o?
remember how we listened to the radio
and i said ‘that’s the place to be
and how i got the job as an FM jock the day you married me?
It was two kids and i was was into AM rock
but i just had to run around
it’s been eight years since i left you babe
let me tell you ’bout what’s gone down
i am the morning dj on w*o*l*d
playing all the hits for you wherever you may be
the bright good-morning voice who’s heard but never seen
feeling all of forty-five going on fifteen
the drinking i did on my last big gig it made my voice go low
they said that they liked the young sound when they let me go
so i drifted on down to Tulsa,
Oklahoma to do me a late night talk show
now i’ve worked my way down home again, via Boise, Idaho
that’s how this business goes
i am the morning dj on w*o*l*d
playing all the hits for you wherever you may be
the bright good-morning voice who’s heard but never seen
feeling all of forty-five going on fifteen
i’ve been making extra money playing high school sock hops
i’m a big time guest mc
you should hear me talking to the little children
and listen what they say to me
I got a spot on the top of my head, just begging for a new toupee
theres a tyre around my gut from sitting
but they’re never gonna go away
sometimes i get this crazy dream
that i just take off in my car
but you can travel on ten thousand miles and still stay where you are
i’ve been thinking that i should stop diskc jockeying
and start that record store
maybe i could settle down if you’ld take me back once more
ok honey, i see
i guess he’s better than me
sure, old girl, i understand
you don’t have to worry, i’m such a happy man
w*o*l*d, w*o*l*d, w*o*l, w*o*l, w*o*l*d*d*d
i am the morning dj on w*o*l*d
playing all the hits for you wherever you may be
the bright good morning voice who’s heard but never seen
feeling all of forty-five, going on fifteen
i am the morning dj on w*o*l*d

By Tam Le