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Hello Stranger
Barbara Lewis Lyrics


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(Shoo-bop, shoo-bop, my baby)
(Shoo-bop, shoo-bop)

Hello, stranger
(Ooh) it seems so good to see you back again
How long has it been?
(Ooh, seems like a mighty long time)
(Shoo-bop, shoo-bop, my baby, ooh)
It seems like a mighty long time

Oh-uh-oh, I my, my, my, my
I'm so glad
(Ooh) you stopped by to say "hello" to me
Remember that's the way it used to be
Ooh, it seems like a mighty long time
Shoo-bop, shoo-bop, my baby, ooh
It seems like a mighty long time

Shoo-bop, shoo-bop, my baby
Shoo-bop, shoo-bop, my baby
Oh-uh-oh (shoo-bop, shoo-bop, my baby)
Yes I'm so glad you're here again (shoo-bop, shoo-bop, my baby, shoo-bop, shoo-bop, my baby, shoo-bop, shoo-bop, my baby, shoo-bop, shoo-bop, my baby)

Oh-ahh-uh-oh
If you're not gonna stay
(Ooh) please don't treat me like you did before
Because I still love you so a-a-although
It seems like a mighty long time
Shoo-bop, shoo-bop, my baby, ooh
It seems like a mighty long time

Oh-uh-oh, I my, my, my, my (shoo-bop, shoo-bop, my baby, shoo-bop, shoo-bop, my baby, shoo-bop, shoo-bop, my baby, shoo-bop, shoo-bop, my baby)
I'm so happy that you're here again (shoo-bop, shoo-bop, my baby, shoo-bop, shoo-bop, my baby)

Overall Meaning

Barbara Lewis's "Hello Stranger" is a soulful love song that expresses joy and longing after being separated from a loved one, with some apprehension about the future. In the opening lyrics, the singer expresses delight in seeing an old flame return after a long absence, indicating that it's been quite a while since they last saw each other. As the song progresses, the singer recalls fond memories of their relationship and hopes that things can be like they used to be.


However, there is underlying vulnerability and uncertainty about the situation, as echoed in the lyrics, "If you're not gonna stay, please don't treat me like you did before/ Because I still love you so although it seems like a mighty long time." The singer is clearly hoping for a reconciliation but fears being hurt again if their lover is not committed to staying. Overall, the song is a poignant reminder of the power of love and the hope that comes with reconnecting.


Line by Line Meaning

Hello, stranger
I'm happy to see you again


(Ooh) it seems so good to see you back again
Seeing you again is wonderful


How long has it been?
I haven't seen you in a while


(Ooh, seems like a mighty long time)
It feels like a really long time


If you're not gonna stay
If you're leaving soon


(Ooh) please don't treat me like you did before
Don't treat me badly like you did in the past


Because I still love you so a-a-although
Despite everything, I still love you


I'm so glad / happy that you're here again
I'm really happy to see you again


Remember that's the way it used to be
Don't forget how things used to be between us


Oh-uh-oh, I my, my, my, my
An expression of joy and excitement


Shoo-bop, shoo-bop, my baby, ooh
Vocalization of a catchy tune


It seems like a mighty long time
It has been a really long time




Lyrics ยฉ Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: BARBARA ANN LEWIS

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Most interesting comment from YouTube:

@yeez13

โ€œYouโ€™re the only one who ever touched meโ€

God, that is such an incredibly powerful way to end that film and the way he broke out of his persona to be himself to them was just nothing short of ๐Ÿฅฒ๐Ÿ˜ข

On every level, Moonlight is a very specific story and at the same time, the story of anyone who has their lot in life being so tough and with those around them so hard to discern, that itโ€™s a lifetime journey to actually KNOW and FEEL that Love they always knew was there the whole time.

Thank You for your visionary work and voice, Barry Jenkins!

And THANK YOU, Barbara Lewis, for such a wonderfully sang and conveyed piece of music to serve so many important purposes. Youโ€™re truly immortal once youโ€™re remembered for doing that touches so many!



All comments from YouTube:

@mangojulie123

It's over 60 years old and this song still sounds so hauntingly romantic! If you agree, smash the IโคBarbara Lewis button:
๐Ÿ‘‡๐Ÿพ๐Ÿ‘‡๐Ÿพ

@dogduckchikin7588

i just made 60! this lady this song! captiphates my heart! so kool 2 see we feel the same feeling when we listen.

@frankshea3164

I'm 73. I've had an interesting life yet as soon as I hear the opening notes I am flooded with memories of my junior high days. I've always loved this song. The lyrics and her voice provided a boost whenever I was down. Still does. Amazing.

@JHENDRIXROCS

Yes indeed! My how time flies!

@antoinettechuffa4982

I'll be 73 on April 1st, I get it.....those were the good old days my friend......GOD BLESS ๐Ÿ™Œ

@frankshea3164

I turn 74 on April 12! You're right, those were the good old days especially when compared to today.@@antoinettechuffa4982

@rustypotatos

Thank you Frank thank you so much for this. My moms your age and I love her so much

@kalania14

God Bless you, Frank.

6 More Replies...

@wchampton7112

This song brings tears to my eyes! My mom and dad had 15 children together, they use to play this song when I was 8 years old. Iโ€™m 65 now, I miss my mom and dad!

@carolleecoy24

This was my motherโ€™s favorite song. When she got Alzheimerโ€™s it was the only thing that calmed her down. I too love this song. Her voice was amazing!

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