Wishin' And Hopin'
Brenda Lee
The Practical Guide to Winning Love: Brenda Lee's 'Wishin' And Hopin''
Brenda Lee's 'Wishin' And Hopin'' is a charming and straightforward guide to love, wrapped in a catchy melody. The song's lyrics emphasize the futility of merely wishing, hoping, and dreaming about love. Instead, it advocates for taking tangible actions to show affection and care. The repeated refrain underscores that passive longing won't win someone's heart; active demonstration of love and attention will.
The song suggests practical steps to win over a lover: holding, kissing, and showing genuine care. It also touches on the idea of personal grooming and doing things that the other person likes, which reflects a traditional view of gender roles and courtship. This perspective might seem dated today, but it was a common sentiment in the 1960s when the song was released. The advice to 'wear your hair just for him' and 'do the things he likes to do' highlights the importance of making an effort to please one's partner.
Brenda Lee, known for her powerful voice and emotive delivery, brings a sense of earnestness to the song. Her performance makes the advice feel heartfelt rather than prescriptive. The song's upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it memorable, ensuring that its message about the importance of action in love is both heard and felt. 'Wishin' And Hopin'' remains a delightful reminder that love requires more than just dreams; it needs effort and genuine care.