About the song
When it comes to singers who could make your heart ache and soar in a single phrase, Matt Monro stands in a league of his own. Known as “The Singer’s Singer,” Monro possessed a voice both smooth as velvet and strong as steel. His ability to convey emotion, whether it was the ache of longing or the joy of love found, was simply unparalleled. One song that beautifully showcases this talent is “You’re Closer To Me.”
Released in 1970, this track is a hidden gem in Monro’s extensive catalog. It’s not one of his chart-toppers, but that’s part of its charm. It feels like a secret whispered between lovers, a quiet confession of growing affection. The melody, composed by the duo Goemans and Bridges, is deceptively simple. It’s the kind of tune that sneaks into your ear and takes up residence in your heart.
Monro’s delivery is, as always, impeccable. His voice dances over the lyrics, caressing each word with warmth and sincerity. You can hear the smile in his voice as he sings, “You’re closer to me than my shadow could be, closer than the air that I breathe…” It’s a testament to his skill that even the most straightforward lines feel imbued with deep feeling.
The arrangement, overseen by the legendary George Martin (known for his work with The Beatles), is understated elegance. Lush strings and gentle horns create a soft backdrop, allowing Monro’s voice to take center stage. There’s a lovely, nostalgic quality to the sound, like a cherished memory brought to life.
If you’re a fan of classic vocalists like Sinatra, Bennett, or Nat King Cole, then “You’re Closer To Me” is a must-listen. It’s a reminder of an era when songs were crafted with care and singers poured their souls into every performance. But even if you’re new to Matt Monro, this song is a wonderful introduction. It’s a timeless expression of love’s gentle power, delivered by a voice that will stay with you long after the last note fades away.
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Lyrics
You’re closer to meThan the shore is to the waves of the seaThan a leaf is to a bow of a treeOh my love, no one else can be closer to meYou’re closer by farThan a moonbeam to the light of a starThan your laughter to the place where you areOh my love stay as close ever closer to meEverydayLet me be closer to youFar awayI couldn’t live a day throughThough they sayPeople in love can be blindWith every new moment I findYou’re closer to meThan a bird is to the air as it fliesThan the tears are to a child when it criescnd when I see the sky high aboveThen I pray that as close as we growWe would show to the world that we knowJust how close we can beNow we found true loveThen I pray that as close as we growWe would show to the world that we knowJust how close we can beNow we found true love