Diary Bread oDDBall

Just me singing

The song "Diary" by Bread was written and produced by David Gates, the band's lead vocalist and primary songwriter. It was released in 1972 as part of their album "Baby I'm-a Want You." Here's a detailed look at the background of the song:

Lyrics and Theme: "Diary" tells the story of a boy who finds a girl's diary and starts reading it, initially believing the loving words written inside are about him. The song's narrative takes a turn when he discovers that the affection expressed in the diary is actually for another person. This realization leads to a poignant and somewhat tragic conclusion where the boy wishes happiness for the girl with the other man she loves.
Musical Composition: The song features a simple arrangement with an acoustic guitar and a synthesizer providing an unusual, dreamy sound effect, which adds to the song's intimate and melancholic atmosphere. David Gates crafted the melody and lyrics to convey the emotions of unrequited love and the discovery of hidden feelings.
Commercial Success: "Diary" was a notable hit for Bread, spending 11 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and peaking at No. 15. It also reached No. 3 on Billboard's Easy Listening chart, showcasing its broad appeal. The song was ranked No. 50 on Billboard's year-end list of "Top Easy Listening Singles" for 1972.
Critical Reception: Critics have praised "Diary" for its delicate composition and heartfelt lyrics. Some have noted it as one of Bread's most emotionally resonant songs, capturing the essence of the sensitive singer-songwriter era of the early 1970s. However, there are diverse opinions; some reviewers have described it as overly sentimental or even among the "worst" due to its narrative simplicity or perceived saccharine nature.
Cultural Impact: The song has left a lasting impact, appearing in various films and TV shows, which speaks to its enduring melody and emotional depth. Its narrative has resonated with many, touching on themes of love, secrecy, and the pain of realizing one's affections are not reciprocated.

In summary, "Diary" by Bread is a classic example of 1970s soft rock, known for its storytelling and emotional resonance, crafted by David Gates to explore the complexities of unrequited love through a simple yet effective lyrical and musical arrangement.