William Osborne "Billy" Kyle (July 14, 1914 - February 23, 1966) was an Ame… Read Full Bio ↴William Osborne "Billy" Kyle (July 14, 1914 - February 23, 1966) was an American jazz pianist.

Kyle was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He began playing the piano in school and by the early 1930s worked with Lucky Millinder, and later the Mills Blue Rhythm Band. In 1938, he joined John Kirby's band, but was drafted in 1942. After the war, he worked with Kirby's band briefly and also worked with Sy Oliver. He then spent thirteen years as a member of Louis Armstrong's All-Stars, and performed in the 1956 musical High Society. He is perhaps best known as an accompanist. Kyle died in Youngstown, Ohio.

A fluent pianist with a light touch, Billy Kyle never achieved much fame, but he always worked steadily. A professional from the time he was 18, Kyle played in the big bands of Tiny Bradshaw and Lucky Millinder and then became an important member of the John Kirby Sextet (1938-1942), a perfect vehicle for his style. He was forced to leave the band when he was drafted and, after three years in the military (1942-1945), Kyle freelanced, working fairly often with Sy Oliver. He joined Louis Armstrong's All-Stars in 1953 and was there for nearly 13 years until his death. His playing with Armstrong, although appealing, tended to be very predictable.

Billy Kyle had few opportunities to record as a leader and none during his Armstrong years; just some octet and septet sides in 1937, two songs with a quartet in 1939, and outings in 1946 with a trio and an octet, 17 songs in all.

I Want You I Need You
Billy Kyle Lyrics

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I'll get by
As long as I have you
Though there be rain
And darkness too
I'll not complain
I'll see it through

Poverty

May come to me, it's true
But what care I
Say, I'll get by
As long as I have you.

But what care I

Say, I'll get by
As long as I have you.

Overall Meaning

In Billy Kyle's song "I Owe You," the lyrics express a deep sense of reliance and gratitude towards someone who provides unwavering support and love. The opening lines, "I'll get by, as long as I have you," indicate that the singer finds solace and strength knowing they have this person by their side. The subsequent line, "Though there be rain and darkness too, I'll not complain, I'll see it through," suggests that even in the face of challenges and difficult times, the singer is determined to persevere and remain optimistic. This demonstrates a resilient and unwavering spirit, acknowledging that life may have its obstacles but with the presence and support of a loved one, they are confident they can overcome anything.

The next stanza introduces the theme of poverty, acknowledging that it may come their way. However, the singer states, "But what care I, say, I'll get by as long as I have you." This highlights that material wealth or lack thereof holds little importance as long as they have the love and support of this person. It conveys a message of contentment and reminds listeners of the power of love and human connection in providing strength and fulfillment in life.

Overall, "I Owe You" is a heartfelt tribute to the companionship and support that sustains us through life's trials and tribulations. It emphasizes the importance of relationships and the inherent strength one gains from having someone to rely on.

Line by Line Meaning

I'll get by
I will manage and cope

As long as I have you
As long as I have your presence and support

Though there be rain
Even in challenging times or difficult situations

And darkness too
And when there is a sense of despair or uncertainty

I'll not complain
I won't express discontent or dissatisfaction

I'll see it through
I will persevere and overcome

Poverty
The state of being impoverished or lacking resources

May come to me, it's true
It might confront me, admittedly

But what care I
Why should I worry or be concerned

Say, I'll get by
I am confident that I will manage

As long as I have you.
As long as I have your support and companionship.