About the song
*”She’d Rather Be with Me,” a 1967 release by The Turtles, offers a more nuanced and introspective counterpoint to the band’s earlier, exuberant hits like “Happy Together.” While the song is undoubtedly rooted in the pop sensibilities of the era, it reveals a maturity and depth that sets it apart from its predecessors.
As a sequel to the more lighthearted “Happy Together,” “She’d Rather Be with Me” delves into the complexities of romantic relationships. The lyrics, while still carrying the hallmark of the 60s pop ballad, hint at underlying tensions and the bittersweet nature of love. The shift in tonal quality is perhaps most evident in Howard Kaylan’s vocals. While his voice retains its familiar charm, there’s an undercurrent of melancholy that lends an air of authenticity to the song’s themes.
Musically, the track is a rich tapestry of sounds. The arrangement, featuring a full orchestra and a prominent cowbell, is both lush and evocative. The juxtaposition of these elements creates a sonic landscape that is both familiar and intriguing. The cowbell, in particular, serves as a rhythmic anchor, driving the song forward while adding a touch of irreverence.
Allmusic critic Stewart Mason aptly describes “She’d Rather Be with Me” as “a big, swinging pop song” that is “perhaps the least joyous single The Turtles ever made.” This assessment is particularly insightful, as it highlights the song’s ability to balance commercial appeal with emotional depth. While it may not have the same immediate impact as some of the band’s other hits, “She’d Rather Be with Me” is a testament to The Turtles’ versatility and their willingness to explore more complex musical and lyrical territories.”*
Video
Lyrics
Some girls
Love to run around
Love to handle everything they see
But my girl
Has more fun around
And you know she’d rather be with me
Me oh my (me oh my, I’m a lucky guy)
Lucky guy is what I am
Tell you why, you’ll understand
She don’t fly although she can
Some boys (some boys)
Love to run around
They don’t think about the things they do
But this boy (this boy)
Wants to settle down
And you know he’d rather be with you
Me oh my (my)
Lucky guy is what I am (my)
Tell you why, you’ll understand (my)
She don’t fly although she can (my)
Some girls (some girls)
Love to run around
Love to handle everything they see
But my girl (my girl)
Has more fun around
And you know she’d rather be with
Yeah, she’d rather be with
You know she’d rather be with me
You know she’d rather be with me
You know she’d rather be with me
You know she’d rather be with me