Introduction
“It Might Be You” is a song written by American singer-songwriter Stephen Bishop. The song was released in 1982 and was included in the soundtrack for the film Tootsie, starring Dustin Hoffman and Jessica Lange. The song reached number 25 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, and also appeared on music charts in Canada and Australia.
The song’s lyrics exude a romantic and dreamy quality, complemented by Bishop’s smooth, soothing voice. Though the song’s lyrics are relatively simplistic, the tender melody and Bishop’s dulcet tones have made it an enduring and memorable classic.
History and Background
Stephen Bishop wrote “It Might Be You” with songwriter David Sanborn in mind. The two collaborated on the song while on tour together, with Bishop playing the guitar and Sanborn on the saxophone.
When the song was chosen to be included in the Tootsie soundtrack, Bishop’s record label pushed for a more commercial version. However, Bishop advocated for his original recording to be included, and it was ultimately chosen for the film and released as a single.
Lyrics and Meaning
The song’s lyrics revolve around the idea of finding love unexpectedly. In the chorus, Bishop sings, “It might be you, it might be you I’ve been waiting for all of my life.”
The lyrics express the feeling of hope and wonder that comes with the possibility of finding a true love. The verses describe the speaker’s feelings of loneliness and longing, before ultimately expressing a newfound sense of hope.
The chorus is particularly memorable, with the repeated refrain of “It might be you,” imbuing the song with a sense of hope and optimism.
FAQs
What inspired Stephen Bishop to write this song?
In an interview with Billboard, Bishop revealed that he wrote the song after seeing a beautiful woman on the street and wondering if she might be the love of his life. The woman in question was later revealed to be actress Karen Allen.
What was Bishop’s reaction when his record label wanted to change the song?
Bishop was vehemently opposed to the idea of re-recording the song in a more commercial style. In an interview with Songfacts, he stated that he felt the original recording was true to the spirit of the song and conveyed the intended emotion.
What makes “It Might Be You” such a beloved song?
The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its universal message of love and hope. The lyrics, which speak to the idea of finding love unexpectedly, have resonated with listeners for decades. Additionally, Bishop’s smooth and soothing voice, paired with the song’s gentle melody, create a dreamy atmosphere that is both comforting and uplifting.
What other movies has the song been featured in?
The song has also been featured in the films The Last American Virgin (1982) and Sleepless in Seattle (1993).
Who else has covered the song?
The song has been covered by a variety of artists, including Michael Paulo, Bill LaBounty, and Minnie Riperton.
Has the song won any awards?
The song was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1983, but lost to “Up Where We Belong” from An Officer and a Gentleman.
What impact has the song had on Stephen Bishop’s career?
The success of “It Might Be You” helped solidify Bishop’s place as a prominent singer-songwriter in the 1980s. Additionally, the song’s inclusion in the Tootsie soundtrack brought him critical acclaim and helped boost his profile as a musician.
Is there an official music video for the song?
There is no official music video for the song.
How has the song been received by fans and critics?
The song has been lauded by fans and critics alike for its timeless quality and emotional resonance. Bishop’s smooth and emotive vocals, combined with the song’s tender melody and hopeful lyrics, have made it a beloved classic.
Is there any symbolism in the lyrics of the song?
The lyrics mainly express the feeling of hope and wonder that comes with the possibility of finding a true love. There is no overt symbolism present in the song.
What kind of instruments are used in the song?
The song features a variety of instruments, including acoustic guitar, piano, and saxophone.
Has the song been used in any other media outside of films?
The song has also been featured on various TV shows, including the ABC drama Brothers & Sisters and the NBC comedy The Office. It has also been used in advertising campaigns, such as a 2010 commercial for the Ford Edge.
Conclusion
“It Might Be You” is a timeless classic that has become synonymous with the romantic genre. The song’s tender melody and lyrics, combined with Bishop’s smooth and soothing vocals, have made it a beloved favorite of music fans around the world. Its appearance in several films and TV shows has helped to solidify its place in popular culture, and its legacy continues to endure today.
