At its formation the band consisted of Paul Heaton (vocals), Stan Cullimore (guitar), Ted Key (bass) and Chris Lang (drums). The band's membership changed frequently throughout its existence. Ted Key was replaced by Norman Cook (who later became internationally famous as big beat musician Fatboy Slim) and drummer Chris Lang was replaced by Hugh Whitaker, former drummer with The Gargoyles, who in turn was replaced with Dave Hemingway. The band split in 1988.
The band often referred to themselves as "the 4th best band in Hull," referring to Kingston upon Hull, the city in England where the band formed in 1983. (The three bands that were "better" were Red Guitars, Everything but the Girl, and The Gargoyles.)
In 1986, the band broke through with the single Happy Hour, which reached No. 3 in the UK charts helped by a claymation animated pop promo of a type that was in vogue at the time. At the end of the same year, they had a No. 1 single with a cover version of Isley Jasper Isley's Caravan of Love.
The band released three albums: London 0 Hull 4, The People Who Grinned Themselves to Death, and the greatest bits compilation Now That's What I Call Quite Good. A new collection, Best of the Housemartins, was released in 2004, and was available in a expanded edition with a DVD collecting their music video clips.
The Housemartins lyrics were an odd mixture of Marxist politics and born-again Christianity, reflecting Paul Heaton's beliefs at the time.
The band split in 1988, but the members have since remained friends and worked on each other's projects. Norman Cook has enjoyed significant success with both Beats International and then as Fatboy Slim, while Heaton, Hemingway and roadie Sean Welch formed The Beautiful South. Stan Cullimore has become an author of children's books. Despite repeated requests from fans, they have never reformed.
In 1993, former drummer Hugh Whitaker was convicted of assault after attacking his business partner James Hewitt with an axe. Whitaker was subsequently released from prison and now resides in Leeds, where he occasionally drums with local band Percy. Whitaker is also a member of The Malkies fronted by Alistair Hulett.
Lean On Me
The Housemartins Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Lean on me
Heavy burden on your shoulder
Lean on me
Heavy burden on your shoulder
Everyday just a little bit harder
Heavy burden on your shoulder
Lean on me
Lean on me
Down and out without hope
Lean on me
Down and out without hope
I'm right here, I'll help you cope
Down and out without hope
Lean on me
Grab a rope and pull me in
But lean on me
Everyday, you'll have a friend
But lean on me
Grab a rope, pull me in
Everyday you'll have a friend
Grab a rope
In the world, ??
And if you're looking for a rainy day friend
Well grab a rope, pull me in
Lean on me
Heavy burden cloudy skies
Lean on me
I'll be the ?? of weeping eyes
But lean on me
If you always feels like rain
All you've got in life is pain
Heavy burden, go away
Oh...goodbye
Heavy burden, on you shoulder
Lean on me
The Housemartins' "Lean On Me" is a song that speaks to those who are struggling and offers them support in difficult times. The lyrics, "Heavy burden on your shoulder, Lean on me," repeat throughout the song, creating a clear message of comfort and reassurance. The repetition of the phrase emphasizes the importance of offering help to those in need.
The lines "Down and out without hope, I'm right here, I'll help you cope," demonstrate the compassionate spirit behind the song's message. The phrase "grab a rope and pull me in/Everyday, you'll have a friend," encourages listeners to reach out for support, knowing that there is always someone willing to provide help.
Line by Line Meaning
Heavy burden on your shoulder
You are weighed down by a difficult situation that you are carrying alone.
Lean on me
I am here for you and ready to support you.
Everyday just a little bit harder
Your situation is becoming increasingly challenging with each passing day.
Down and out without hope
You are feeling hopeless and defeated after your struggles.
I'm right here, I'll help you cope
Don't give up - you have my support and I can guide you through this.
Grab a rope and pull me in
I am available and ready to help in any way I can.
But lean on me
There's no need for you to carry this alone - I'm here to help.
Everyday, you'll have a friend
I will be here for you every day as your loyal friend.
In the world, ??
The world can be a harsh place and you need someone to rely on.
And if you're looking for a rainy day friend
When things get tough, you need someone who will be there for you no matter what.
Well grab a rope, pull me in
Don't hesitate to ask for my help or support whenever you need it.
Heavy burden cloudy skies
Your situation is difficult and it's making it hard to see the bright side.
I'll be the ?? of weeping eyes
I am here to comfort and support you when you need it most.
If you always feels like rain
If every day feels difficult and overwhelming,
All you've got in life is pain
And your struggles have left you feeling nothing but suffering.
Heavy burden, go away
You deserve to be free of this heavy weight that you've been carrying.
Oh...goodbye
Say goodbye to your struggles and hello to a brighter future.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: PAUL HEATON, WILLIAM P. WINGFIELD
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@PianobyDavidHallett
I was on the verge of joining the Navy at this time, 1986. It was a a very worrying time for me but this ws the soundtrack of that challenging time of going through training... Just helped me get through in a funny kind of way. It takes me back to a time that changed my life from boy to man. Love it still!
@scindian100
Glad it helped
@whisperingfox
Pauls voice is just pitch perfect here. Its a great GREAT vocal performance.
@rouguy1972
One of my favortes ever, beautiful song!
@kermit2829
Great Piano! Goosebumps!
@timiq34550
Superbe voix ! Et belle chanson pleine de douceur.......
@joansp1365
amazing song
@andyjgrace2461
Now I HAVE got the blues!!
@jaygibson5057
Jeezus
@fictus1868
nightsong