Body and Soul

Anita Baker's song "Body and Soul" is a heartfelt exploration of deep, all-encompassing love. The lyrics convey a sense of vulnerability and longing, as the narrator expresses how profoundly they have been affected by their partner. The opening lines, "What have you done to me / I can't eat, I cannot sleep," set the tone for the song, highlighting the intense emotional and physical impact of love. This love is not just a fleeting emotion but something that has fundamentally changed the narrator's life, making them unable to function normally without their partner's presence.

The chorus emphasizes the need for mutual commitment and assurance in the relationship. Phrases like "Body and soul / That you've got no doubt / Inside and out / We are whole" suggest that the narrator seeks a love that is complete and unwavering. This is a plea for a love that is not just superficial but one that encompasses every aspect of their being. The repetition of "Body and soul" underscores the depth and totality of the love they desire, one that leaves no room for doubt or insecurity.

As the song progresses, the narrator reflects on past mistakes and the time wasted on unfulfilling relationships. The lines "I've wasted too much time / Livin' for what wasn't mine" indicate a realization and a newfound appreciation for the love they have found. This love is described as "truly blessed," and the narrator expresses a strong desire to make dreams come true with their partner. The song concludes with a sense of growing trust and strength, as each kiss and moment together brings them closer. The repeated plea to be loved "body and soul" encapsulates the essence of the song—a yearning for a love that is complete, genuine, and transformative.