If I Had a Hammer
the Wet-tones Lyrics
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Da-da-da-day, da-da-da-da-day-ay
If the shoe fits I want you to wear it,
and wear it good,
ah-ah, ah-ah-yeah, ah-ah-hah
Talkin' 'bout them times when I was by myself,
But as time went on I had a talk with my mind,
friends like you and you I gotta leave behind
And so, you call me your friend but you only want my gifts
And I'll never see you if I had no loot,
I'll never see them
I'm just glad I know the truth
and I'm payin' my own bills
and I'll never ever depend on you
Friends and enemies around me everyday,
I can't believe half the things they say
Takin' me for granted givin' no credit at all,
I'll just keep bouncin' like a bouncin' ball
Everybody seems to disappear on me,
can't trust no one as far as I can see
If I could be that fly that's on the wall, listenin' to my friends talk about it all
You call me your friend
but you only want my gifts
And I'll never see you if I had no loot,
I'll never see them
I'm just glad I know the truth
and I'm payin' my own bills
And I'll never ever depend on you,
some soul you are
I don't mean to step on nobody's foot, but ah -
When I need somebody there's nobody to call
When they need me,
my phone rings off the wall
But these are my friends
and that so what they say
Constantly takin' from me everyday, you say
You call me your friend
but you only want my gifts
And I'll never see you if I had no loot,
I'll never see them
I'm just glad I know the truth
and I'm payin' my own bills
And I'll never ever depend on you,
some soul you are
The lyrics of the Wet-tones's song "If I Had A Hammer" convey a powerful message about the complexities of friendships and relationships. The recurring refrain of "da-da-da-day" creates a sense of rhythm and urgency, setting the tone for the introspective lyrics that follow. The singer reflects on the experiences of feeling alone and searching for genuine connections amidst a backdrop of superficial relationships.
The first paragraph delves into the theme of authenticity and self-worth. The singer expresses a desire for others to truly understand and appreciate them, emphasizing the importance of genuine connection over material possessions. The use of repetition in the lines "If the shoe fits I want you to wear it, and wear it good" underscores the plea for honesty and integrity in relationships.
As the song progresses, the lyrics delve deeper into the challenges of navigating friendships that may be based on ulterior motives. The singer confronts the reality of being used for their gifts or resources, highlighting the disappointment and betrayal that can arise when true intentions are revealed. The decision to distance oneself from toxic relationships and prioritize self-sufficiency is a recurring theme throughout the song.
The final paragraphs poignantly capture the sense of disillusionment and isolation that can result from feeling used or unappreciated by those who claim to be friends. The singer laments the lack of genuine support and reciprocation in their relationships, recognizing the need to rely on themselves rather than depending on hollow promises. The refrain "some soul you are" serves as a powerful indictment of those who prioritize personal gain over authentic connection.
Overall, "If I Had A Hammer" by the Wet-tones delves into the complexities of human relationships, exploring themes of authenticity, self-reliance, and the challenges of distinguishing true friends from those who only seek to benefit from one's generosity. The introspective lyrics and soulful delivery of the song invite listeners to reflect on their own experiences with friendship and connection, resonating with anyone who has felt the sting of betrayal or the emptiness of superficial relationships.
Line by Line Meaning
If the shoe fits I want you to wear it, and wear it good, ah-ah, ah-ah-yeah, ah-ah-hah
I want you to take responsibility for your actions and own up to them in a positive way.
Talkin' 'bout them times when I was by myself, I would always be lookin' for somebody else
Reflecting on the times when I felt lonely and always sought companionship from others.
But as time went on I had a talk with my mind, friends like you and you I gotta leave behind
As I grew older, I realized I needed to distance myself from friends who were not genuine.
And so, you call me your friend but you only want my gifts
You claim to be my friend, but in reality, you are only interested in what I can provide for you.
And I'll never see you if I had no loot, I'll never see them
If I had nothing material to offer, you and others like you would not bother to maintain the relationship.
I'm just glad I know the truth and I'm payin' my own bills
I am grateful for understanding the real intentions of those around me and for being independent financially.
And I'll never ever depend on you, some soul you are
I have learned not to rely on someone like you, who lacks genuine compassion and friendship.
When I need somebody there's nobody to call, When they need me, my phone rings off the wall
I find myself alone when in need of support, but others only reach out to me when they need something.
But these are my friends and that's what they say, Constantly takin' from me everyday, you say
Despite being called friends, they continuously take advantage of me and my generosity.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: O'SHEA JACKSON, JOHN M. BAUTISTA, BERNARD WORRELL, GEORGE CLINTON, ANTHONY WHEATON, WILLIAM EARL COLLINS, STEVE CROPPER, EDDIE FLOYD, RAPHAEL WIGGINS, WILLIAM H. HARRIS
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