The Wilson sisters and Phillips were friends from childhood, growing up in southern California in the 1970's and 1980's. The three shared a love of music and songwriting, and developed their own style of vocal harmonies. In 1989, producer Glen Ballard and SBK Records signed the trio to a record deal.
Wilson Phillips released their debut album Wilson Phillips in 1990. They shot to fame with their debut single, the # 1 hit "Hold On". The album was a hit, producing three number one singles and selling 10 million copies worldwide.
They released their follow-up album Shadows and Light in 1992. It was much less successful, producing no top ten singles and selling one million copies. Shortly after, the group decided to split up.
During the next decade, the group went their separate ways. Chynna Phillips released a solo album, "Naked and Sacred" in 1995, while the Wilson sisters released a Christmas album in 1993 and an album "The Wilsons" in 1997. Carnie also went on to host her own television talk show, while Phillips married actor William Baldwin. A "Greatest Hits" album was released in 2000, although the group did not officially reunite for this release. Carnie made headlines in 1999 when she underwent gastric bypass surgery live on the internet and lost over 20 dress sizes.
Wilson Phillips reunited in 2004 to release California, an album of cover songs. A single, 'Go Your Own Way,' a remake of the original by Fleetwood Mac, peaked at #13 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart. The album debuted at #35 on the charts with 31,000 copies sold but due to the lack of promotion the album has yet to reach sales of 100,000 copies. In New Zealand the album was a surprise hit, reaching the top 10 and amassing gold sales following 'Go Your Own Way' topping the adult contemporary radio chart for several weeks.
A Reason to Believe
Wilson Phillips Lyrics
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I'd find a way to believe that it's all true
Knowing that you lied, straight-faced, while I cried
Still I'd look to find a reason to believe
Someone like you makes it hard to live without somebody else
Someone like you makes it easy to give, never think of myself
I'd find a way to leave the past behind
Knowing that you lied, straight-faced, while I cried
Still I'd look to find a reason to believe
Someone like you makes it hard to live without somebody else
Someone like you makes it easy to give, never think of myself
Someone like you makes it hard to think about somebody else
If I listened long enough to you
I'd find a way to believe that it's all true
I'd find a reason, a reason to believe (oh no)
And though I want you, you're just not what I need
Someone like you, like you
I'd find a reason to believe
I would find a reason to believe
The song A Reason to Believe by Wilson Phillips talks about believing in someone despite knowing that they lied. It’s about holding onto hope, even when the evidence is against the person you trust. The lyrics suggest that listening to someone long enough can make you believe that what they are saying is true. The song is a commentary on love and the struggles of maintaining faith in a relationship.
The lyrics also suggest that it’s hard to live without someone you love. Even when you know that they are not good for you, it’s difficult to let go of them. Wilson Phillips describes how this type of person makes it easy to give and not think about oneself, but hard to think about somebody else. The lyrics suggest that the singer is aware of how the person they love is not right for them, but they continue to look for a reason to believe in them.
The song is a classic representation of love and relationships. It portrays the struggles that people face when trying to maintain a relationship. The idea of wanting to believe in someone despite knowing they have lied is a universal theme that many people can relate to. It’s a beautifully written song that captures the pain and struggle of love.
Line by Line Meaning
If I listened long enough to you
The singer is suggesting that if she were to continue taking in what the other person is saying, she would eventually believe their lies.
I'd find a way to believe that it's all true
The singer is acknowledging that she would eventually believe the lies being told to her.
Knowing that you lied, straight-faced, while I cried
The singer is expressing the hurt she feels after being lied to and feeling betrayed.
Still I'd look to find a reason to believe
Despite the lies and betrayal, the artist is saying that she continues to search for something that will give her hope in their relationship.
Someone like you makes it hard to live without somebody else
The artist is admitting that her dependence on the other person makes it difficult for her to be alone and independent.
Someone like you makes it easy to give, never think of myself
The singer is saying that the other person makes it easy for her to sacrifice her own needs and desires for the sake of the relationship.
If I gave you time to change my mind
The singer is considering the possibility of changing her mind and leaving the relationship behind.
I'd find a way to leave the past behind
The artist believes that she could find a way to move on from the hurt and pain caused by the other person's lies.
Someone like you makes it hard to think about somebody else
The artist is saying that the other person's presence in her life makes it difficult for her to consider anyone else romantically.
I'd find a reason, a reason to believe (oh no)
The artist is emphasizing her desire to hold onto something that will make her believe in the relationship, despite the lies and hurt.
And though I want you, you're just not what I need
The singer is acknowledging that she has feelings for the other person, but that they are not good for her and that she needs to move on.
Someone like you, like you
The artist is emphasizing that it is specifically the other person who is causing her pain and difficulty in the relationship.
I'd find a reason to believe
The final line is a repetition of the earlier line and underscores the singer's strong desire to hold onto something that will help her believe in the relationship.
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Songtrust Ave
Written by: Tim Hardin
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind