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THE REAL THING

From YESTERDAY, TODAY, TOMORROW – THE GREATEST HITS
Written by David Foster & Kenny Loggins

Kenny Loggins is undeniably one of the best singers/songwriters in the history of modern pop music. His distinctive tenor voice, superior musical skills and amazing songwriting abilities have brought him international success and several big hits over the years. During his long and productive career, the singer has worked with excellent co-writers like Michael McDonald and often crossed paths with David Foster who helped him create some of his most-loved compositions. Three of those gems are part of Loggins’ 1997 “best of” compilation entitled “Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow – The Greatest Hits.”

“Heart To Heart” and “Forever” are two songs dear to the hearts of every Foster/Loggins fan. The first exemplifies the beauty of quality pop with its jazzy chord changes and immaculate production while the second is a milestone power ballad. The third offering, “The Real Thing,” comes from Loggins’ 1991 album, “Leap of Faith.” Musically, it is a rarefied acoustic ballad with guitars and Foster’s piano supporting the singer’s moving performance. Lyrically, it’s a very personal song about the pain of going through a divorce that deeply touches the listener. “The Real Thing” became an Adult Contemporary Top 5 hit.

“Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow – The Greatest Hits” includes the superstar’s giant hits like “Whenever I Call You Friend,” “This Is It” and “Footloose.” The platinum certified album is an absolute delight to listen to from start to finish.

Recently, Loggins has made a comeback album entitled “How About Now.” It is a solid collection of new songs delivered with his familiar style.


Listen

[audio:https://www.fozfan.com/archives/clips/the_real_thing.mp3|titles=The real thing|artists=Kenny Loggins]


Lead Vocals: Kenny Loggins
Piano: David Foster
Synths: Steve Wood
Acoustic Guitar: Dean Parks
Acoustic Guitar: Paul Jackson, Jr.
Fretless Bass: Freddie Washington
Drums: Michael Baird
Drums Arrangement: Steve Dubin
String Arrangement: Paul Buckmaster
Produced by Kenny Loggins & Terry Nelson


Lyrics

Amanda, I know what you’re thinking,
You and I have much to say,
And you’ve been making me crazy,
Trying to understand
But it’s impossible at your age.

I know I said I’ll always try,
But you’re going to bed alone again tonight,
And you lie there in the dark and wonder why.

I did it for you, and the boys,
Because love should teach you joy,
And not the imitation,
That your momma and daddy tried to show you.
I did it for you, and for me,
And because I still believe,
There’s only one thing,
You can never give up,
Never compromise on,
And that’s the real thing you need in love.

You’re so afraid your life is over,
And nothing I can say can change your mind.
How can anybody be so selfish,
And treat you all so cruel,
The woman screamed at me and cried.
I’ll always hold you in my soul,
And I’m never going to leave you all alone
But your daddy doesn’t live here anymore.

I did it for you, and the boys,
Because love should teach you joy,
And not the imitation,
That your momma and daddy tried to show you.
I did it for you, and for me,
And because I still believe,
There’s only one thing,
That you can never give up,
Never compromise on,
And that’s the real thing you need in love.

Everybody’s got a boat upon the ocean,
Not everybody’s sailing out to sea,
And is there someone there for me?
I’m ready to believe.

I did it for you, and the boys,
Because love should teach you joy,
And not the imitation,
That your momma and daddy tried to show you.
I did it for you, and for me,
And because I still believe,
There’s only one thing,
That you can never give up,
Never compromise on,
And that’s the real thing you need in love.