As Long As He Needs Me
Veronica Swift Lyrics
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In spite of what you see I'm sure that he needs me
Who else would love him still, when they've been used so ill?
He knows I always will, as long as he needs me
I miss him so much when I am gone but when I'm near him I don't let on
The way I feel inside, the love I've had to hide
He doesn't say the things he should, he acts the way he thinks he should but
All the same, I'll play this game his way
As long as he needs me, I know where I must be
I'll cling on steadfastly as long as he needs me
As long as life is long, I'll love him right or wrong
And somehow I'll be strong, as long as he needs me
If you are lonely then you will know
When someone needs you, you love them so
I won't betray his trust though people say I must
I've got to stay true just as long as he needs me
These lyrics are from the musical Oliver! and are sung by the character Nancy, who is in love with Bill Sikes despite his abusive behavior towards her. The lyrics showcase Nancy's unwavering loyalty to Bill and her willingness to endure his mistreatment as long as he needs her. She believes that they have a special connection, as nobody else would still love him after the way he's treated her.
Nancy's conflicted feelings are expressed throughout the song. She loves Bill deeply, but she also resents the way he treats her. Despite this, she puts on a brave face and remains loyal to him. She misses him when she's away but can't bear to let him know how much she cares when she's with him. The love that she's had to hide is finally coming to the surface, but she's determined to do what Bill wants, even if it means playing a game.
The final stanza talks about Nancy's commitment to Bill, even if others tell her she should leave him. She believes in staying true to her feelings and maintaining her loyalty to Bill as long as he needs her. The song highlights the complex emotions involved in abusive relationships, as well as the intense love and loyalty that some people have for their partners despite the harm they may suffer.
Line by Line Meaning
As long as he needs me, oh yes, he does need me
I am certain that he needs me no matter what others may say.
In spite of what you see I'm sure that he needs me
Despite any appearance to the contrary, I know that he needs me.
Who else would love him still, when they've been used so ill?
Who else would continue to love him after being treated so poorly?
He knows I always will, as long as he needs me
I will always love him as long as he needs me to.
I miss him so much when I am gone but when I'm near him I don't let on
I long for him when we are apart, but I don't show it when I'm with him.
The way I feel inside, the love I've had to hide
I've been hiding my love for him even though I feel it so strongly.
To hell I've got my pride as long as he needs me
I will put aside my pride and keep loving him as long as he needs me to.
He doesn't say the things he should, he acts the way he thinks he should but
Although he doesn't always express himself the way he should, I will still be there for him.
All the same, I'll play this game his way
I'll adapt to his ways even though they may not always be what I would choose.
As long as he needs me, I know where I must be
I will always be by his side as long as he needs me to be.
I'll cling on steadfastly as long as he needs me
I will hold on tight and never let him go as long as he needs me to stay.
As long as life is long, I'll love him right or wrong
I will love him no matter what happens, for as long as I live.
And somehow I'll be strong, as long as he needs me
I will find the strength to keep going as long as he needs me to.
If you are lonely then you will know
If you have ever felt lonely, you will understand.
When someone needs you, you love them so
When someone needs you, you love them with all your heart.
I won't betray his trust though people say I must
Even if others tell me to give up on him, I won't break his trust.
I've got to stay true just as long as he needs me
I will remain loyal and honest for as long as he needs me to be.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: ROBIN SPIELBERG, LIONEL BART
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@ericchandler2422
Miss Swift you’re truly tracking in the footsteps of Ella and Sarah you have a beautiful voice your range and control are breathtaking thank you for sharing your gift
@davidfreedman1013
Not only is this song (by Lionel Bart, from "Oliver") one the greatest torch songs of the 20th century; this is one of the most intelligent interpretations, and technically perfect performances of it, you'll find anywhere. This young woman is a future great, and the trio is great too.
@franzkrammer6392
How wonderful!
@RacheloftheSmiths
Absolutely stunning version of this song. Pitch perfect.
@kittygray2368
You make us smile and feel so good!
We are looking forward to seeing you in person. Kit and Howard.
You are amazing!
@scotspaarjonte6824
Love this girl! Watched her in her growing up in Youth Orchestra playing a mean trumpet!
@aprilsigns4175
So pure!!!!!!!
@BluzIsaFeelin
Credits really should show, lyrics and music by Lionel Bart. Not sure why that’s not always noted. Beautiful cover here though. Victoria is so wonderfully talented
@RacheloftheSmiths
Agree that that info should be more easily accessible! Songwriters need more credit.
@RandyScandy
Amazing version ❤