Van Morrison – Bring It On Home To Me (1974)

About the song

“Bring It On Home To Me” by Van Morrison is a heartfelt rendition of the classic soul song originally written and performed by Sam Cooke. Van Morrison, known for his deep, soulful voice and emotive performances, brings a unique touch to this timeless piece. His version was featured on the 1974 album “It’s Too Late to Stop Now,” a live double album that captures the raw energy and passion of Morrison’s concerts.

Sam Cooke wrote “Bring It On Home To Me” in 1962, and it quickly became one of his most iconic songs, celebrated for its soulful melody and poignant lyrics. The song tells a story of regret and longing, with the narrator pleading for the return of a lost love. Lines like “I’ll give you jewelry and money too / That ain’t all, that ain’t all I’ll do for you” convey a deep sense of remorse and a desperate hope for reconciliation.

Van Morrison’s interpretation of “Bring It On Home To Me” stays true to the original’s emotional depth while adding his distinct vocal style and musical arrangement. His live performance of the song on “It’s Too Late to Stop Now” is particularly powerful, showcasing his ability to convey profound emotion through his singing. The live album itself is often hailed as one of the best live recordings in rock history, capturing Morrison’s dynamic stage presence and the exceptional skill of his backing band, the Caledonia Soul Orchestra.

While Morrison’s rendition did not chart as a single, it has been praised by fans and critics alike for its authenticity and emotional intensity. The album “It’s Too Late to Stop Now” reached number 53 on the Billboard 200 chart and remains a significant part of Morrison’s discography, reflecting his deep connection to the roots of soul and R&B music.

“Bring It On Home To Me” in Van Morrison’s hands becomes more than just a cover; it is a tribute to Sam Cooke’s legacy and a demonstration of Morrison’s own musical prowess. His version preserves the soulfulness of the original while infusing it with his unique vocal interpretation, making it a standout track in his live performances.

For listeners, Van Morrison’s “Bring It On Home To Me” is a moving experience, a reminder of the timeless nature of great soul music and the enduring power of heartfelt performances. It is a song that continues to resonate, offering a glimpse into the emotional depth that both Morrison and Cooke bring to their music.

Video

Lyrics

If you ever change your mind
About leaving, leaving me, leaving me behind
Bring it to me
Bring on your sweet loving
Bring it on home to me, yeah, yeah

You know I tried to treat you right
You can stay, stay out late at night
Want you to bring it to me
Bring your sweet loving on
Bring it on, bring it back, bring it back, bring it back

I’ve given ya jewelry and money, money, money, money, money too
And I know and I know, I can do for you
Oh, bring it to me
Bring your sweet loving
Bring it on home, bring it on home

“Alright Jeff.”

“Gotta turn it one more Jeff, one more, one more”

I, I’ve given ya everything, everything I had in the bank
Now it’s time for you, it’s time for you to say thanks
Oh, bring it to me
Bring your sweet loving
Bring it on home, bring it on, bring it on, bring it on

Now I ain’t (I ain’t, I ain’t) gonna be your slave (no slave)
When I’m buried, buried in my grave
Oh, bring it to me
Bring it on, bring it on back, bring it back home, bring it back home

If you ever, if, if, if you ever change your mind
About leaving, leaving me behind
I want ya to bring it to me
Bring your sweet loving
Bring it on back, bring it on back, bring it on home to me, baby
Bring it on home to me

Whenever, whenever you change your mind
Don’t leave me behind (bring it to me)
Bring it on home (bring it to me)
Alright now baby (bring it to me)
(Bring it to me) Yeah
(Bring it to me) Yeah, yeah
Send your love back to me