On two separate occasions I’ve attended a live show featuring U.K.-born singer and songwriter David Gray. The first time I saw him live, I was in the front row of Northrup Auditorium on the campus of the University of Minnesota, close enough to hear his foot tap as he played. In fact, I could almost read his play list which he had taped to the floor next to his mic stand. At the next show, I sat about 20 rows back and the music was just as meaningful.
His album, White Ladder, proved to be his foundation here in the U.S., even though he’d seen amazing success across the pond for several years prior to this release. On that record, the song “This Year’s Love” was my immediate favorite. Yeah, I’m a sucker for a really good love song. So!
As many people who listen to “This Year’s Love” may think, Gray sings this song for each of us. Those who’ve known real love and those who thought they had it. Just a taste.
On Oct. 8, Gray released songs from his new record, “A Thousand Miles Behind.” Check his web site for details. But listen to this classic before you bounce.
The Lyrics
This year’s love had better last
Heaven knows its high time
And I’ve been waiting on my own too long
But when you hold me like you do
It feels so right, oh no
I start to forget
How my heart gets torn
When that hurt gets thrown
Feeling like you can’t go onTurning circles and time again
It cuts like a knife oh no
If you love me, got to know for sure
Cos it takes something more this time
Than sweet sweet lies
Before I open up my arms and fall
Losing all control
Every dream inside my soul
When you kiss me
On that midnight street
Sweep me off my feet
Singing ain’t this life so sweetThis year’s love had better last
This year’s love had better last
Cos who’s to worry
If our hearts get torn
When that hurt gets thrown
Don’t you know this life goes on
And won’t you kiss me
On that midnight street
Sweep me off my feet
Singing ain’t this life so sweetThis year’s love had better last
This year’s love had better last
This year’s love had better last
This year’s love had better last
-end-
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