What a Difference a Day Makes
Olstead Renee Lyrics

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What a difference a day makes
Twenty-four little hours
Brought the sun and the flowers
Where there used to be rain

My yesterday was blue, dear
Today I'm a part of you, dear
My lonely nights are through, dear

Since you said you were mine

What a difference a day makes
There's a rainbow before me
Skies above can't be stormy
Since that moment of bliss, that thrilling kiss

It's heaven when you find romance on your menu
What a difference a day made
And the difference is you

What a difference a day makes
There's a rainbow before me
Skies above can't be stormy
Since that moment of bliss, that thrilling kiss

It's heaven when you find romance on your menu

What a difference a day made
And the difference is you

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of "What a Difference a Day Makes" by Jamie Cullum and originally sung by Olstead Renee reflect a profound transformation and shift in emotions and circumstances within a span of just one day. The song captures the essence of how quickly life can change, from gloomy and rainy to bright and sunny, symbolized by the sun and flowers emerging after a period of rain. This contrast emphasizes the impact of love and companionship on one's life.

The singer contrasts their past feelings of sadness and loneliness with the joy and connection they feel in the present moment. The shift from a blue yesterday to a blissful today, where they feel united with their loved one, signifies a newfound sense of belonging and fulfillment. The lyrics convey a sense of relief and contentment, as the long nights of solitude are now replaced with a sense of completeness and togetherness since their partner declared their love.

The imagery of a rainbow and clear skies symbolizes the positivity and brightness that have entered the singer's life since experiencing a moment of pure happiness, represented by the passionate and memorable kiss they shared. This imagery highlights the transformative power of love and affection in dispelling darkness and bringing color and light into one's existence. The lyrics suggest that finding love and experiencing romance can elevate everyday experiences to a heavenly level, creating a sense of enchantment and wonder.

The overarching message of the song is that love has the ability to completely alter one's perspective and outlook on life within the span of a day. Through the lens of newfound love and connection, the singer realizes that the transformation they have undergone can be attributed to the presence of their partner. The lyrics emphasize the profound impact that love can have on an individual, turning a mundane day into one filled with joy, beauty, and fulfillment, ultimately declaring that the true difference lies in the presence of their beloved.

Line by Line Meaning

What a difference a day makes
A remarkable change occurred within just one day

Twenty-four little hours
A mere day, consisting of a short period of time

Brought the sun and the flowers
Brought happiness and beauty where there was once sadness

Where there used to be rain
In a situation that was once filled with challenges and difficulties

My yesterday was blue, dear
My past was filled with sadness, my love

Today I'm a part of you, dear
Today, I am connected to you in a meaningful way

My lonely nights are through, dear
My nights of loneliness have come to an end, my dear

Since you said you were mine
Since you declared your love for me

There's a rainbow before me
There is a sense of hope and promise in front of me

Skies above can't be stormy
Troubles and challenges are unlikely to come my way

Since that moment of bliss, that thrilling kiss
Since the time of joy and excitement from that passionate kiss