That's What Friends Are For
Johnny Mathis · Other Songs - Johnny Mathis
I never thought I'd feel this way
I never knew that you and I were meant to be in love
Oh, darling, you've always been around to see me through.
How was I to know you'd make my dreams come true?
Time and time again before, always on our own
But now we're friends in love
Hoping that we'll always still be friends in love
It's dawn and we're together
Darling, now we got forever and day
Don't you go away
Remember every time you cried, you came to me
Much to my surprise, I found someone to see
Even nights of loneliness you were always there for me
We're friends in love
Hoping that we'll always still be friends in love
It's dawn and we're together
Darling, now we got forever and day
Don't you go away
You turned around, looked my way
I can't say that it hasn't crossed my mind
I've loved you all along
Ah, now we're leavin' yesterday behind
We'll never be alone, we're friends in love
Hoping that we'll always still be friends in love
It's dawn and we're together
Darling, now we got forever and day
Don't you go away
That's What Friends Are For
Johnny Mathis's rendition of 'That's What Friends Are For' stands as a defining example of the doo-wop and pop standards genre, capturing the essence of camaraderie through a smooth, emotive vocal delivery. Released in the 1960s, the track became a staple of the Great American Songbook, often associated with collaborative efforts by vocal groups like The Carpenters or The Righteous Brothers, though Mathis's solo version highlights his signature warmth and baritone range. The recording exemplifies the era's focus on romantic and platonic themes, serving as a timeless anthem for friendship and shared experience. Its enduring popularity ensures its inclusion in countless compilations and holiday collections, cementing Mathis's legacy as a master of intimate balladry and vocal harmony.