A House Is Not A Home

Dakota Staton · Other Songs - Dakota Staton

A chair is still a chair

Even when there's no one sitting there

But a chair is not a house

And a house is not a home

When there's no one there to hold you tight,

And no one there you can kiss good night.



A room is still a room

Even when there's nothing there but gloom;

But a room is not a house,

And a house is not a home

When the two of us are far apart

And one of us has a broken heart.



Now and then I call your name

And suddenly your face appears

But it's just a crazy game

When it ends it ends in tears.



Darling, have a heart,

Don't let one mistake keep us apart.

I'm not meant to live alone.

Turn this house into a home.

When I climb the stair and turn the key,

Oh, please be there still in love with me.

A House Is Not A Home

Dakota Staton delivers a soulful interpretation of the classic standard "A House Is Not A Home," showcasing the vocal depth that defined her career. Known for her powerful contralto and emotional delivery, Staton was a prominent figure in jazz and R&B who frequently collaborated with legendary arrangers and bandleaders. This recording highlights her ability to convey profound longing and intimacy, hallmarks of her approach to balladry. Throughout her discography, Staton explored a wide range of material, from swing-era favorites to contemporary blues, always maintaining a distinct, resonant presence. Her work remains a testament to the enduring power of vocal jazz, offering listeners a rich connection to the genre's golden era through her commanding performance style.