From SINGLE
Written by David Foster & BIll Champlin
Here we are again talking about another one of those unforgettable Foster classics. “We Both Tried” was included in Bill Champlin’s solo debut album, “Single”, that was released in 1978. It is a beautiful ballad, a perfect setting for the unique voice of Mr. Champlin who sings his lyrics about the end of a love affair with passion and intensity. Foster surrounds his friend with lush strings, his piano playing and backing vocals where Champlin is joined, among others, by Daryl Hall of Hall & Oates fame. This song has also been covered by the Tavares (always under Foster’s production) and Robbie Dupree and it is really one of Foster and Champlin most effective collaborations.
“Single” wasn’t really that successful but it did improve the buzz about this new, up and coming producer, and it is one of the reasons why Foster ended up working with Maurice White and EW&F. The album is filled with groovin’, funky/soul numbers like “Fly With Me”, “Yò Mama” and “I Don’t Want You Anymore” where Champlin’s vocals simply shines. The guys of the “L.A. mafia” play on the record with their usual class and precision while Foster is, like always, the master of ceremonies with his inventive and original arrangements and unique production style.
Listen
[audio:https://www.fozfan.com/archives/clips/we_both_tried.mp3|titles=WE BOTH TRIED|artists=Bill Champlin]
Lead Vocals: Bill Champlin
Drums: Jeff Porcaro
Bass: David Hungate
Keyboards: David Foster
Guitars: Steve Lukather, Jay Graydon
Background Vocals: Bill Champlin, Carmen Twillie, Venette Gloud & Daryl Hall
Arranged by David Foster & Bill Champlin
Produced by David Foster
Lyrics
What can you do with love
decides to pass you by
the more we try
the less we get along
there comes a time
in every life when right and wrong
is what comes between us
we’ve seen us fall apart
down to the seams
dreams
We both tried
then love died
old standbys were nice tries
so goodbye
We both lied
to ourselves about each other
we both cried
cause we needed something better
old standbys were nice tries
so goodbye
Our love reminded me
of wishing on a start
it was hard to feel anything
We put us through the paces
with total disregard
for the love between us
refused to grow
refused to spread her wings
dreams
We both tried
everything within our power
then love died
by the minute, by the hour
old standbys were nice tries
so goodbye
We both tried
to ourselves about each other
we both cried
cause we needed something better
old stanbys were nice tries
so goodbye