About the song
“Help Yourself” by Tom Jones is a standout track from the 1960s that showcases the Welsh singer’s powerful voice and charismatic style. Released in March 1968, this song became one of Jones’ most memorable hits and is a perfect example of his ability to blend pop, soul, and a touch of country into a compelling musical experience.
“Help Yourself” is a dynamic song that combines a catchy melody with poignant lyrics. Written by Jackie DeShannon and Les Reed, the song’s lyrics deliver a message about self-reliance and the importance of taking control of one’s own happiness. The chorus, with its memorable line “Help yourself to my love, it’s the best thing that you’ve ever had,” reflects a blend of assertiveness and generosity, capturing a sentiment of offering oneself wholeheartedly while encouraging self-sufficiency. This theme of empowerment and self-assertion resonates with listeners and adds a layer of depth to the song’s otherwise upbeat sound.
Musically, “Help Yourself” is characterized by its upbeat tempo and infectious rhythm. The track features Tom Jones’s robust and emotive vocal performance, which is complemented by a lively arrangement that includes vibrant brass sections and a driving rhythm. The song’s production effectively highlights Jones‘s dynamic range and charismatic delivery, contributing to its commercial appeal and lasting popularity. The energetic arrangement and engaging chorus make it a quintessential example of Jones‘s ability to connect with audiences through powerful and memorable music.
The impact of “Help Yourself” on Tom Jones’s career was significant. The song achieved substantial commercial success, reaching number 5 on the UK Singles Chart and securing a place in the hearts of fans worldwide. Its success helped solidify Jones‘s status as a major pop and soul artist of the time. The track’s popularity also contributed to the success of his album, “Help Yourself”, which was well-received and further established Jones as a leading figure in the music industry.
Socially, “Help Yourself” reflects the optimism and empowerment of the late 1960s. The era was marked by a growing sense of individualism and self-expression, and the song’s message of taking charge of one’s own happiness aligns with these cultural shifts. The upbeat nature of the track provided a welcome escape and a positive outlook during a time of significant social change.
In summary, “Help Yourself” by Tom Jones, released in March 1968 and featured on the album of the same name, is a vibrant and emotionally engaging song that showcases Jones’s powerful vocal ability and charismatic presence. With its compelling message of self-reliance and its catchy, upbeat arrangement, the song remains a classic example of Jones‘s impact on pop and soul music. Its enduring popularity highlights the track’s significance in Jones‘s career and its resonance with the social and cultural sentiments of the late 1960s.
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Lyrics
Love is like candy on a shelfYou want to taste and help yourselfThe sweetest things are there for youHelp yourself take a fewThat’s what I want you to doWe’re always told repeatedlyThe very best in life is freeAnd if you want to prove it’s trueBaby, I’m telling youThis is what you should doJust help yourself to my lips, to my armsJust say the word and they’re yoursJust help yourself to the love in my heartYour smile has opened up the doorThe greatest wealth that exists in the worldCould never buy what I can giveJust help yourself to my lips, to my armsAnd then let’s really start to liveAlright, hahahaha, yeahMy heart has love enough for twoMore than enough for me and youI’m rich with love, a millionaireI’ve so much, it’s unfairWhy don’t you take a shareJust help yourself to my lips, to my armsJust say the word and they’re yoursJust help yourself to the love in my heartYour smile has opened up the doorThe greatest wealth that exists in the worldCould never buy what I can giveSo help yourself to my lips, to my armsAnd then let’s really start to liveJust help yourself to my lips, to my armsJust say the word and they’re yours