“Make It with You” by Bread: A Soothing Anthem of Love and Connection
“Make It with You”, a song penned by the talented David Gates, stands as a hallmark of early 70s pop-rock. Originally recorded by the American group Bread, of which Gates was a prominent member, this track became an emblem of the band’s melodic prowess and emotional depth. Notably, only Gates and drummer Mike Botts were involved in the recording, adding a unique layer of intimacy and simplicity to its production.
Released as part of Bread’s 1970 album, On the Waters, “Make It with You” quickly soared to the top of the charts. As a single, it was released in June 1970 and rapidly climbed the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart, reaching the coveted No.1 spot by the week of August 22, 1970. This achievement marked Bread’s first top-ten hit and their only chart-topping single in the United States. Across the pond, the song also enjoyed significant success, peaking at No.5 on the UK Singles Chart.
The early 70s were a transformative period in music, characterized by a shift towards softer rock sounds and introspective lyrics. “Make It with You” perfectly encapsulated this era’s sentiment with its soothing melody and heartfelt lyrics. Gates’ gentle yet expressive vocal delivery, combined with the song’s lush, acoustic arrangement, struck a chord with listeners worldwide. The track’s success was further solidified when Billboard ranked it as the No. 13 song of 1970, and it received a gold certification from the RIAA for sales exceeding one million copies.
Critics and fans alike lauded “Make It with You” for its construction and emotional resonance. Record World praised the song as “well-constructed… rock music,” a testament to Gates’ songwriting abilities and Bread’s knack for crafting memorable tunes. The song’s lyrics, which speak of hope, love, and the desire to build a future with someone special, resonated deeply with audiences, making it a timeless classic.
The charm of “Make It with You” lies in its simplicity and sincerity. Gates’ lyrics, “Do you think you’re gonna make it? / I think we could make it if we try,” encapsulate a universal yearning for connection and the optimism that love can bring. This sentiment, coupled with the song’s gentle rhythm and harmonious arrangement, creates a listening experience that is both comforting and uplifting.
As we reflect on the legacy of Bread and their impact on the music scene of the 70s, “Make It with You” stands out as a testament to their artistic vision and emotional depth. It’s a song that continues to evoke nostalgia and warmth, reminding us of the enduring power of love and the timeless appeal of well-crafted music.
In essence, “Make It with You” is more than just a hit single; it’s a beautiful narrative of hope and togetherness, perfectly captured through the lens of Bread’s signature sound. For those who lived through its original release and new listeners discovering it today, the song remains a poignant reminder of the simple yet profound joys of love and companionship.