About the song
Background
- Italian Inspiration: “Help Yourself” is an English-language adaptation of the Italian song “Gli Occhi Miei” (“My Eyes”), originally performed by Dino and Wilma Goich.
- Songwriters: The English lyrics were written by Jack Fishman, and Carlo Donida was the original composer.
- Immediate Success: Tom Jones’ version of “Help Yourself” was released in 1968 and quickly became a huge hit, topping charts in numerous countries.
Lyrics
Here’s a look at the opening verse and chorus:
“Love is like candy on a shelf You want to taste and help yourself The sweetest things are there for you Help yourself, take a few That’s what I want you to do”
Themes
- Love as a Treat: The central metaphor compares love to candy—freely available and meant to be enjoyed. This encourages openness to love.
- Agency in Love: The emphasis on “help yourself” suggests taking control of your own happiness and seizing opportunities in love.
- Abundance of Love: The song promotes the idea that love is plentiful and there’s enough for everyone.
- Joy and Indulgence: The overall tone is playful, celebrating the pleasure and delight of finding love and embracing it fully.
Legacy
“Help Yourself” remains one of Tom Jones’ most beloved and recognizable hits. Its catchy melody, upbeat tempo, and positive message have ensured its enduring popularity.
Video
Lyrics
Love is like candy on a shelf
You want to taste and help yourself The sweetest things are there for you Help yourself take a few That’s what I want you to doWe’re always told repeatedly
The very best in life is free And if you want to prove it’s true Baby, I’m telling you This is what you should doJust help yourself to my lips, to my arms
Just say the word and they’re yours Just help yourself to the love in my heart Your smile has opened up the door The greatest wealth that exists in the world Could never buy what I can give Just help yourself to my lips, to my arms And then let’s really start to liveAlright, hahahaha, yeah
My heart has love enough for two
More than enough for me and you I’m rich with love, a millionaire I’ve so much, it’s unfair Why don’t you take a shareJust help yourself to my lips, to my arms
Just say the word and they’re yours Just help yourself to the love in my heart Your smile has opened up the door The greatest wealth that exists in the world Could never buy what I can give So help yourself to my lips, to my arms And then let’s really start to liveJust help yourself to my lips, to my arms
Just say the word and they’re yours