Chances Are
Vonda Shepard
Eternal Longing and Serendipity in 'Chances Are'
Vonda Shepard's song 'Chances Are,' featuring Robert Downey Jr., is a poignant exploration of love, memory, and the serendipitous nature of human connections. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of two individuals who are deeply intertwined, both in their waking lives and in their dreams. The song opens with Downey Jr.'s voice, expressing a sense of inevitability and fate, as if the paths of the two lovers are destined to cross repeatedly. This idea is reinforced by the line, 'All the rules of logic don't apply,' suggesting that their connection transcends rational explanation.
The song delves into the power of memory and the lasting impact of a significant encounter. Shepard's verse reminisces about the night they met, highlighting the vividness of her memories and the profound effect the other person had on her. The lyrics, 'I remember clearly how you looked the night we met,' and 'I recall your laughter and your smile,' emphasize the deep emotional imprint left by that initial meeting. This nostalgia is coupled with a longing to relive those moments, as seen in the recurring theme of dreams and nighttime encounters.
The chorus, sung by both artists, encapsulates the essence of the song: the hope and desire to reconnect with a loved one, even if only in dreams. The repetition of 'Chances are I'll see you somewhere in my dreams tonight' underscores the persistent yearning and the belief that their bond is unbreakable. The song beautifully captures the bittersweet nature of love, where joy and longing coexist, and the future is filled with dreams of togetherness. The collaboration between Shepard and Downey Jr. adds a unique dynamic, blending their voices to convey the depth of emotion and the shared experience of love and longing.