THE MANHATTANS were originally: Winfred "Blue" Lovett, Richard Taylor, Kenny Kelley, George "Smitty" Smith and Sonny Bivins. The quintet reportedly took it's name not from the big city across the water from New Jersey, but from the cocktail known as the Manhattan featuring whiskey, vermouth, and bitters. Still, the name suggested class, something the Manhattans have epitomized throughout their long career.
Between 1970 and 1973 they recorded for Starday/King Records , and by 1973 they were signed to industry behemoth Columbia where their career finally took off.
After 10 years of lower charting singles, the 1976 hit "Kiss and Say Goodbye" was the group's biggest hit to date and led to a performance at Jimmy carter's 1977 inaugural. In 1980 they won a Grammy for Shining Star written and produced by Leo Graham. In the mid 1980's female singer Regina Belle was briefly added to the lineup, singing on the Bobby Womack-produced single, "Where Did We Go Wrong" (a duet with Gerald Alston). She also contributed to The Manhattans 1986 Columbia Records album, "Back To Basics" before signing as a solo artist.
Two versions of The Manhattans have soldiered on to today. One lead by original member Sonny Bivins, and another created after a long hiatus, when founding member Blue Lovett began working with former lead Gerald Alston for a late career touring resurgence. Alston also appeared on Wu-Tang Clan's song "Stick Me For My Riches" in 2007.
In 2013, "Original" member Edward "Sonny" Bivins group features "Sonny" Bivins, Lee Williams, Charles Hardy, Harsey Hemphill and Alvin Pazant. In 2013, The Manhattans CD single "Just For Tonite" was released by Westwood Music Group. Currently, the group is recording material for a 2014 release. The Manhattans is a Registered U.S. Trademark owned by Manhattan Entertainment, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
You're My Life
The Manhattans Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
No silent prayer for faith-departed
And I ain't gonna be just a face in the crowd
You're gonna hear my voice when I shout it out loud
It's my life
It's now or never
But I ain't gonna live forever
I just want to live while I'm alive
My heart is like an open highway
Like Frankie said, ""I did it my way""
I just want to live while I'm alive
It's my life
Yeah, this is for the ones who stood their ground
For Tommy and Gina, who never backed down
Tomorrow's getting harder, make no mistake
Luck ain't even lucky, got to make your own breaks
It's my life
And it's now or never
I ain't gonna live forever
I just want to live while I'm alive
(It's my life)
My heart is like an open highway
Like Frankie said, ""I did it my way""
I just want to live while I'm alive
'Cause it's my life
Better stand tall when they're calling you out
Don't bend, don't break, baby, don't back down
It's my life
And it's now or never
'Cause I ain't gonna live forever
I just want to live while I'm alive
(It's my life)
My heart is like an open highway
Like Frankie said, ""I did it my way""
I just want to live while I'm alive
And it's now or never
I ain't gonna live forever
I just want to live while I'm alive
(It's my life)
My heart is like an open highway
Like Frankie said, ""I did it my way""
I just want to live while I'm alive
'Cause it's my life
The lyrics to The Manhattans' song "You're My Life" convey a message of empowerment and living life to the fullest. The song begins by stating that it is not meant for those who are broken-hearted or have lost faith. It asserts that the singer refuses to blend into the crowd and wants their voice to be heard. It emphasizes the urgency of seizing the present moment, as life is fleeting and one cannot live forever. The lyrics draw inspiration from Frankie Sinatra's famous phrase, "I did it my way," suggesting that the singer wants to live their life on their own terms.
The song pays tribute to those who have stood their ground and never backed down, specifically mentioning Tommy and Gina. It acknowledges that the future may present challenges and hardships, but it encourages the listener to take control of their destiny and create their own opportunities. It emphasizes the importance of resilience and not succumbing to the pressures or expectations of others. The lyrics reiterate the desire to live life authentically and with passion.
Overall, "You're My Life" is a song that encourages individuals to embrace their individuality, assert their voice, and live with purpose and determination. It serves as a reminder to seize the present and make the most of the time we have.
Line by Line Meaning
This ain't a song for the broken-hearted
This song is not meant for those who have lost hope or are feeling down
No silent prayer for faith-departed
There are no prayers for those who have lost their faith or belief
And I ain't gonna be just a face in the crowd
I refuse to be anonymous or blend in with the masses
You're gonna hear my voice when I shout it out loud
I want my voice to be heard when I express myself boldly
It's my life
I am in control of my own life and choices
It's now or never
The time to take action is limited, there is no second chance
But I ain't gonna live forever
I am aware that my time on Earth is finite
I just want to live while I'm alive
I simply desire to fully experience and enjoy my existence
(It's my life)
Once again, I emphasize that this is my life and my choice
My heart is like an open highway
My emotions and passions flow freely like a wide open road
Like Frankie said, "I did it my way"
Similar to the famous singer, Frank Sinatra, I want to do things according to my own personal vision and style
Yeah, this is for the ones who stood their ground
This song is dedicated to those who have remained steadfast and unwavering in their beliefs
For Tommy and Gina, who never backed down
Specifically, this is for Tommy and Gina, two individuals who never surrendered or retreated
Tomorrow's getting harder, make no mistake
The challenges and difficulties of the future are becoming increasingly daunting, and this should not be underestimated
Luck ain't even lucky, got to make your own breaks
Relying on luck alone is insufficient; one must actively create their own opportunities
Better stand tall when they're calling you out
It is important to maintain self-confidence and integrity when criticized or challenged by others
Don't bend, don't break, baby, don't back down
Do not compromise your principles or give in; stand firm and resolute
'Cause it's my life
It reiterates that this is indeed my life and my decision
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Brandon Little
Such a great Song, music and lyrics just takes u to another galaxy... very underrated song
r2app
Amazing how these songs are excellent for worship. Love YOU, LORD!
Elise Kirby
As much as I love my husband, and he knows I do, I can only sing this song with Jesus Christ in mind, He deserves my highest love and praise! My husband and I sing this as a dedication to Him! Jesus is our life!
Unashamed of my tears.
@Elise KirbySomeone else gets it! Yeah!
Graham Mitchell
my favourite group of all time every record they made is soulful just luv playing them
Joe Jones
One of the Manhattans' greatest hits to me...
jane davis
THIS IS MY HUSBAND FAVORITE MANHATTAN SONG FROM WAY BACK IN THE DAY BEFORE HE MET ME,NOW HE SINGS THIS TO ME ALL THE TIME,I FIND THIS SO ROMANTIC I FEEL THE SAME WAY!!!
Ethyle Mcnain
my favourite group The Manhattans remember growing up in the counrty with no television we would dance to album never bored
p jones
I was a teenager when the Manhattans were popular, but could never understand, why they didnt get the props they deserved. now that I'm still a teenager at heart, i love them even more. Thank you for sharing! .
Winston Leighton
Truly amazing song by one of the if not the best group .