Introduction: The History of That’s What Friends Are For
“That’s What Friends Are For” is a song that has been hailed as one of the greatest songs about friendship ever written. The song was originally recorded by Rod Stewart for a movie called Night Shift in 1982, but it was Dionne Warwick’s version, featuring her friends Stevie Wonder, Elton John, and Gladys Knight, that became a hit in 1985. The song topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for four weeks, won the Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals, and raised millions of dollars for AIDS research.
But what is the meaning behind the song, and why did it resonate with so many people?
The Lyrics of That’s What Friends Are For
The lyrics of “That’s What Friends Are For” describe the qualities that make a good friend:
“And I, never thought I’d feel this way
And as far as I’m concerned
I’m glad I got the chance to say
That I do believe I love you
And if I should ever go away
Well, then close your eyes and try
To feel the way we do today
And then if you can remember
Keep smiling, keep shining
Knowing you can always count on me, for sure
That’s what friends are for
For good times and bad times
I’ll be on your side forever more
That’s what friends are for”
The upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it an easy song to sing along to, but it’s the message behind the words that really resonates with people.
The Message of That’s What Friends Are For
At its core, “That’s What Friends Are For” is a tribute to the power of friendship. The song acknowledges that life can be tough, and that we all need someone to lean on from time to time. Whether we’re celebrating a happy occasion or weathering a difficult storm, having friends who are there for us can make all the difference.
The song also suggests that true friendship is rare and valuable, something to be cherished and nurtured. When the lyrics say “for good times and bad times, I’ll be on your side forever more,” they’re tapping into the idea that a good friend is someone who sticks with you through thick and thin, no matter what.
The Context of That’s What Friends Are For
One reason why “That’s What Friends Are For” became so popular is because it was released at a time when AIDS was a major public health crisis. Millions of people were infected with the virus, which was poorly understood and difficult to treat. In many cases, people with AIDS faced stigma and discrimination from their communities and even from their own families.
The fact that the song was a fundraiser for AIDS research gave it an added sense of meaning and urgency. People wanted to support a cause that was helping to fight a disease that was causing so much pain and suffering.
The song also came at a time when the world was experiencing a lot of political and social turmoil. The Cold War was still going on, there were wars and conflicts in many parts of the world, and there was a general sense that things were not going well.
In this context, “That’s What Friends Are For” was like a breath of fresh air. It offered a message of hope and unity, reminding people that no matter what was happening in the world around them, they could always count on their friends to be there for them.
The Legacy of That’s What Friends Are For
Over 35 years after its release, “That’s What Friends Are For” remains a beloved classic. It’s been covered by dozens of artists, including Anne Murray, Burt Bacharach (who co-wrote the song), and even the Muppets.
The song has also been used in many movies and TV shows, such as Ghostbusters II, Bridget Jones’s Diary, and Scrubs. In every case, it’s been used to convey a sense of warmth and comfort, reminding viewers that friendship is important and valuable.
Most importantly, “That’s What Friends Are For” has raised millions of dollars for AIDS research. The song was originally released as a single in 1985, and all of the proceeds went to the American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR). To date, the organization has raised over $150 million for research, prevention, and advocacy.
Conclusion: The Significance of That’s What Friends Are For in Today’s World
In a world where people are increasingly disconnected and isolated, “That’s What Friends Are For” remains a powerful reminder of the importance of friendship. The lyrics capture the essence of what it means to be a good friend, and the upbeat melody and catchy chorus make it an easy song to sing along to.
The fact that the song was released during a time of great social and political turmoil adds to its significance. It was a beacon of hope and unity at a time when the world badly needed it.
Today, as we face new challenges and uncertainties, “That’s What Friends Are For” remains as relevant as ever. It’s a reminder that no matter what happens, we can always count on our friends to be there for us, to lift us up when we’re feeling down, and to celebrate with us when things are going well.
And, of course, it’s a reminder that we all have an important role to play in the fight against AIDS and other diseases. As the song says, “Keep smiling, keep shining” – and keep supporting organizations like amfAR that are working to make the world a better, healthier, and more connected place.
