Giving It All Away
Leo Sayer
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I paid all my dues so I picked up my shoes I got up and walked away Oh, I was just a boy Nobody else to blame I've worked hard and failed Now all I can say is I threw it all away Oh, I was just a boy Giving it all away Sail away, sail away, Ooh, I know better now, I know better now Giving it all away Ooh, I know better now, I know better now I've given it all away Went out in the world -- too much for my nerves Only myself to blame Oh, I was just a boy Nobody else to blame I've done all I can, now it's out of my hands Stand on my head and say Oh, I was just a boy Giving it all away
Become A Better Singer In Only 30 Days, With Easy Video Lessons!
3 fans
Written by: DAVID ALEXANDER COURTNEY, LEO SAYER
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
10 facts about this song
Song Composition"Giving It All Away" was written by the duo David Courtney and Leo Sayer. David Courtney had collaborated with Sayer on his early works, while Sayer is an internationally recognized singer-songwriter.
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First ReleaseThe song was initially recorded by Leo Sayer himself for his debut album "Silverbird" in 1973. At that time, Sayer was not as well-known as he is now.
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Recomposed by Roger DaltreyLater that same year, the song was covered by Roger Daltrey, who was primarily known as the lead vocalist for the rock band The Who. His rendition was the first single from his debut solo album "Daltrey."
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Achieving Chart Success"Giving It All Away," in Daltrey's version, became a significant hit. It reached number 5 on the UK Singles Chart and was also a top 20 hit in several European countries.
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Public OpinionDespite the song's success, Roger Daltrey stated that he felt it did not suit him. In a 1998 interview, he said, "It was too much the 'poor little me.' I had to sing it, because the office would not release anything else unless I did."
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Usage in AdvertisementsLeo Sayer's version of "Giving It All Away" was featured in a 2009 UK advertisement for Specsavers, a British optical retail chain.
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Cover VersionsAside from Daltrey, the song has been covered by several other artists, including American singer Barry Manilow and UK pop duo Robson & Jerome.
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Notable Mention"Giving It All Away" was included in NME's list of "100 Greatest Singles of All Time" in 1974.
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Deep MeaningThe lyrics tell a story of a man who has lost everything and is unsure about the future. It's a melancholic ballad that speaks to the uncertainties of life.
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Track PlacementOn Daltrey's solo album, the song takes the opening slot, setting a strong and emotional tone for the rest of the record.
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Citation
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