Everybody Needs A Friend

"There's someone in the classroom who doesn't quite fit in. Seems a little diff'rent, from outside lookin' in." I know that kid. In fact, it was me... going through those awkward years. I guess we all feel like that at one time or another, which is the reason for this song.

This is a big ballad. Big drums, big strings, etc. It's emotional. It pleads with the singer and listener to give of himself/herself. To care enough to look and "see" the outsider, and to learn that he/she is really not that different. It encourages connection and friendship. It just "wouldn't take that much" to make a difference in someone else's life.

Did I mention big? Vocally, there are three parts, two of which are optional if you don't have a large enough choir. But to get the desired result, sing all parts. (Isolated rehearsal parts are available online for free. See page 79 for details.) Verse one sets up the story line, lyrically. Verse two offers some specific solutions, while the chorus delivers the punch line(s). Once you get to the bridge, pull out the stops. The bridge has two parts and builds to the climax of the song when you reach the chorus. Three parts hit at the chorus and it has to be big, so give it all you've got. It's a pretty cool sound with all three parts belting "Ev'rybody needs a friend"! It comes back down, dynamically, in the outro, so be careful not to lose the emotion after the coda.

If you have a really talented soloist in your choir, this song could go that way. This allows you to more easily cover three parts. – MW