Title: Love is What the World Needs: The Meaning Behind “What the World Needs Now Is Love” by Jackie DeShannon
Introduction:
In 1965, Jackie DeShannon released a song that became an instant hit and a timeless classic. “What the World Needs Now Is Love” has helped heal hearts and bring people together for generations. The song’s lyrics and melody continue to inspire various artists from different genres, and its message remains as essential as ever. In this article, we’ll explore the meaning behind the song and how it still resonates with us today.
The Origin of “What the World Needs Now Is Love”
The song’s lyrics were written by Hal David, with music composed by Burt Bacharach. According to David, the inspiration behind the song came from a photograph he had seen of young children protesting against the Vietnam War, holding hands and singing, “We Shall Overcome.” The image stayed with him and moved him to write something that could help unify people and make the world a better place.
The Lyrics That Resonate Through Generations
The opening lines, “What the world needs now is love, sweet love. It’s the only thing that there’s just too little of,” sum up the song’s message perfectly. The song beckons us to love one another, regardless of our differences. It stresses the need for compassion, empathy, and kindness in the world.
The song’s lyrics remind us that love is the answer to the world’s problems. It encourages listeners to reach out to others, to spread kindness and to make a positive difference in the world. It has become a symbol of hope and a call to action for peace and unity.
The Song’s Impact on Society
“What the World Needs Now Is Love” was released during one of the most turbulent periods in history. The Vietnam War was raging, and civil rights activists were fighting for equality. The song struck a chord with many people who were tired of the violence and division in society. It became an anthem for the peace movement and helped bring people together in a time of chaos.
The song’s impact continues to be felt today. It has been covered by various artists, including Dionne Warwick, Luther Vandross, and even punk-rock legends The Vandals. It has been used in movies, TV shows, and commercials. The song’s positive message has resonated with people across generations and continues to inspire hope and unity.
The Message of the Song Today
Today, the world seems to be more divided than ever. We face numerous challenges, including social and political upheaval, climate change, and a worldwide pandemic. However, the message of “What the World Needs Now Is Love” remains as essential as ever. We must all come together, set aside our differences, and treat each other with love and respect.
In a 2018 interview with Billboard, Burt Bacharach explained why the message of the song is so timeless. “It says everything,” Bacharach stated. “It’s as relevant now as it was back then. And probably even more relevant now. We didn’t solve the issues we had back then, and we’ve got a lot of new issues we’re dealing with now.”
Conclusion
“What the World Needs Now Is Love” is a song that has stood the test of time. Its message of love, compassion, and unity continues to inspire new generations and has become a symbol of hope and peace. As we face new challenges, let us remember the power of love and strive to make the world a better place for all. As the song says, “Lord, we don’t need another mountain. There are mountains and hillsides enough to climb. There are oceans and rivers enough to cross. Enough to last ’til the end of time. What the world needs now is love, sweet love. It’s the only thing that there’s just too little of.”
