What Am I Living For
Carl Perkins Lyrics


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What am I living for if not for you?
What am I living for if not for you?
What am I living for if not for you?
Oh, nobody else, nobody else will do

What am I longing for each lonely night?
To feel your lips to mine, to hold you tight
You'll be the only girl my whole life through
Oh nobody else, nobody else will do

I want you close to me, that's all I know
I want you all the time because darling, I love you so

What am I living for if not for you?
What am I living for if not for you?
What am I living for if not for you?
Baby, nobody else, nobody else will do

What am I living for if not for you?




Darling, nobody else, nobody else will do
Nobody else, nobody else will do

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to Carl Perkins's song What Am I Living For? express the singer's deep devotion and love for his romantic partner. The chorus repeats the same question, "What am I living for if not for you?" which emphasizes that without the person he loves, his life has no meaning. He asserts that nobody else can replace his beloved, indicating that his love is unique and irreplaceable. The second verse intensifies this passion, as the singer describes the longing he feels for his partner's presence and touch, emphasizing how much he needs her. The final verse affirms the singer's commitment to his partner, stating that he wants to be with her all the time, and that nobody else will do.


These lyrics reflect the typical themes in classic love songs of the 50s, where the singer expresses his unconditional love and devotion for his romantic partner. The repetitive use of the phrase "nobody else will do" emphasizes the exclusiveness of the singer's love and devotion. The song was a hit in 1958, reaching number 9 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, and it has since become a staple in rock and roll and pop culture.


Line by Line Meaning

What am I living for if not for you?
My existence is meaningless if it's not centered around you.


What am I longing for each lonely night?
I am yearning for the feeling of your lips on mine and the security of holding you close.


To feel your lips to mine, to hold you tight
To experience the embrace of your kiss and to be wrapped up in your loving arms is all I desire.


You'll be the only girl my whole life through
You are the only woman I want to spend my entire life with.


I want you close to me, that's all I know
All I am certain of is that I need you to be right beside me, always.


I want you all the time because darling, I love you so
My love for you knows no boundaries, which is why I want to be with you every moment of every day.


Baby, nobody else, nobody else will do
You, my dear, are the only person in this world who could ever satisfy my heart and soul.




Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: FRED JACOBSON, ART HARRIS

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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