“Only to Be with You”: The Timeless Anthem by Roachford

“Only to Be with You” by Roachford is more than just a song; it’s an emotional journey wrapped in soulful rock. Released in 1994 as part of the album Permanent Shade of Blue, this track has become a defining piece of Roachford’s legacy. With its heartfelt lyrics and Andrew Roachford’s powerful vocals, the song continues to resonate with fans worldwide.

The Story Behind “Only to Be with You”

Andrew Roachford, the creative force behind the band, wrote “Only to Be with You” during a period of deep introspection. Inspired by the romantic yet raw storytelling of Thin Lizzy, Andrew crafted a song that blends vulnerability with strength. In an interview, he shared, “I wanted to write a song that felt honest and relatable, something that could connect with people on a personal level.”

ROACHFORD: Then and Now

The Recording Process: A Labor of Love

The recording of the song took place in a state-of-the-art studio, with Martyn Phillips as the producer. The team focused on capturing the raw emotion of Andrew’s vocals while layering the track with rich instrumentation. Tim Palmer, the mixing engineer, ensured every element of the song was perfectly balanced, creating a sound that is both timeless and modern.

Critical Acclaim and Fan Reception of Only to Be with You

Upon its release, “Only to Be with You” received widespread acclaim from critics and fans alike. Music & Media magazine praised Andrew’s vocals, comparing them to the legendary Phil Lynott. Critics described the track as a “superior rock-soul song” and a “great radio anthem.” Fans were equally captivated, with the song becoming a staple on playlists and radio rotations.

Andrew Roachford Joins Mike and the Mechanics

In 2010, Andrew Roachford expanded his musical journey by joining the iconic band Mike and the Mechanics. As a lead vocalist, he brought his soulful style to the group, contributing to albums like The Road and Let Me Fly. This collaboration introduced Andrew’s artistry to a broader audience, further solidifying his place in music history.

The Legacy of “Only to Be with You”

The track remains one of Roachford’s most beloved tracks, showcasing Andrew’s ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with captivating melodies. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its universal appeal and the talent of its creators.

A Song for the Ages

“Only to Be with You” is more than just a hit; it’s a masterpiece that continues to inspire and connect. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, this track is a reminder of the power of music to touch the soul.

The Origins of Hootie & The Blowfish

Hootie & The Blowfish story begins in 1986 in Columbia, South Carolina. Darius Rucker, the soulful voice behind the band, met Mark Bryan in their freshman year at the University of South Carolina. Their friendship kicked off when Mark overheard Darius singing in the dormitory showers. A shared passion for music brought them together, and they soon started jamming and performing.

Mark and Darius later joined forces with Dean Felber, a fellow student and talented bassist, and Brantley Smith, their original drummer. The name “Hootie & The Blowfish” came about in a quirky way. It was inspired by two friends of theirs: one nicknamed “Hootie” because of his owl-like glasses and the other “Blowfish” due to his puffed-up demeanour. The unique name intrigued fans and set the stage for their distinctive journey in music.

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