If You Were Here Tonight

Alexander O'Neal

About If You Were Here Tonight

"If You Were Here Tonight" is a song written by Monte Moir and recorded by American recording artist Alexander O'Neal. It is the second single from the singer's self-titled debut solo album, Alexander O'Neal (1985). Following the moderately successful chart performances of the Alexander O'Neal single "Innocent", "If You Were Here Tonight" was released as the album's second single. "If You Were Here Tonight" is a melancholy ballad about the break-up of a relationship. "If You Were Here Tonight" is one of three songs written by Monte Moir from the album, but it is the only one to be released as a single.  


Year:
1985
6:10
207 
#2

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As the night moves in
Love takes on a new meaning
If you were here
You would know what I mean to say

The circumstance leaves me only waiting
For the chance
I only want to love you more, more

Can't you understand it
Girl you know how much I care
It's not the way I planned it, no
If you could only know my feelings
You would know how much I do believe

If you were here tonight
By my side
If you were with me now

When the lights go out
I can not pretend
This bed's too big for me
To be in alone, all alone
Slow burn light a candle for our love, love

So we'll always be one to one in love, oh love
Can't you understand it
Girl you know how much I care
It's not the way I planned it, no

If you could only know my feelings
You would know how much I do believe
If you were here tonight, all night
By my side
If you were with me now

Every night alone I just wait here anticipating
For the day I won't feel this pain baby
Please don't keep me waiting
Come to me
If you were here tonight
Oh oh girl

Be by my side
If you were with me now
Girl this bed's too big 
For me, for me to be in all alone
All alone

Don't keep me waiting baby
If you were with me now
Oh hold me girl all night, want you for myself

Girl, do me right
Got nobody else
All by myself
Got nobody else 

Girl, this love is strong
Please take me home
Be with you tonight
Make our love our light

Do just what you feel
Please don't be a tease
Girl I love you more
You're the one that I adore, oh girl don't leave me lonely, cold by myself, all alone tonight

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Alexander O'Neal

Alexander O'Neal (born November 15, 1953 in Natchez, Mississippi) is an American R&B singer. He is best known for the songs "If You Were Here Tonight", "Criticize" and "Fake" and the duets with Cherrelle, "Saturday Love" and "Never Knew Love Like This". more »

4 fans

Written by: MONTE S MOIR

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


12 facts about this song

Background
"If You Were Here Tonight" is a song by American recording artist Alexander O’Neal. It was released in 1985 as the third single from his self-titled debut studio album.
Chart Performance
The song managed to reach No. 13 in the UK Singles Chart. Despite not managing to reach the same success on the Billboard charts in the U.S., it has since been hailed as a classic slow jam.
Unique Sound
This ballad stands out due to its fusion of soul and electronic elements, reflecting the Minneapolitan sound - a subgenre of funk rock with elements of synth-pop and new wave, which emerged in the late 1970s.
Cover Versions
Various artists have covered "If You Were Here Tonight", including Stevie Hoang and also Kyle Lettman, further signifying the track's enduring appeal.
Connection to Prince
Alexander O’Neal was one of several artists signed with Tabu Records, a label that was closely connected to Prince. O’Neal was even supposed to be part of The Time, a band formed by Prince, but negotiation issues led to Morris Day taking the role.
Songwriting Team
The track was written and produced by Monte Moir, a member of the Time, along with Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, the legendary songwriting and production team that also became famous for their work with Janet Jackson.
Album Success
The album "Alexander O'Neal" which included "If You Were Here Tonight" was a significant hit in the UK, where it reached No. 2 on the Albums Chart and achieved triple platinum status.
Use in Media
"If You Were Here Tonight" has been used in various media, such as television and film. It was featured in an episode of the American crime drama television series, "Snowfall."
Legacy
"If You Were Here Tonight" remains one of Alexander O’Neal’s most popular and beloved tracks, often played on quiet storm radio formats.
Live Performances
Throughout his career, O'Neal has often performed the track at his live concerts, creating a deeply emotional connection with his audiences.
Reception
This slow jam has been hailed as one of the most powerful ballads of the '80s, which played a significant role in shaping the quiet storm radio format.
Musical Style
"If You Were Here Tonight" is often praised for its silky smooth production, soulful lyrics, and O’Neal’s powerful vocal delivery.

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