From the recording Out of the Shadows
"Valentine’s Day" is a heartfelt love letter brought to life by the soulful harmonies of The McCrary Sisters. Written for Shannon Smith’s partner, Helen Townsend, the song reflects on the challenges of love, acknowledging past mistakes while reaffirming a deep, unwavering commitment.
With its sparse instrumentation and gospel-inspired harmonies, the track allows the raw emotion of the lyrics to take center stage. "Valentine’s Day" is a poignant reminder that love is not just about perfection but about honesty, resilience, and finding strength together.
Written by: Shannon Smith
Arranged by: Shannon Smith & Phil Richardson
Shannon Smith - Lead Vocals, Guitars
McCrary Sisters (Ann, Regina, Alfreda) - Backing Vocals
Elliott Smith - Drums
Phil Richardson - Piano/Organ
Ben Franz - Bass Guitar/Pedal Steel Guitar
Recorded at Sundown Studios (O'Connor) / Rada Studios (Fremantle) / Compass Studios (Nashville).
Recording Engineer: Elliott Smith / Dan Carroll / Matt Coles
Mixing Engineer: Elliott Smith
Mastering: George Georgiadis
Produced by: Shannon Smith, Helen Townsend, Phil Richardson, Elliott Smith, Ben Franz
Lyrics
VERSE 1
I wrote you this song
For Valentine’s Day
So you would know
I’m feeling this way.
VERSE 2
All that I have
I’d give it to you
I’ve shed my skin
Bared my soul to you
PRE-CHORUS
How can I show
These words that I say
Aren’t the same words I used
When I knowingly led you astray
VERSE 3
Now here I stand
Confessing to you
I love you baby
And that’s the whole truth
CHORUS
This is the time
I pledge to you
Share my thoughts, my feelings
won’t hide from you
SOLO
CHORUS
This is the time
I pledge to you
I’ll share my thoughts, my feelings
won’t hide from you
VERSE 4
I’ll keep loving you
When we’re old and we’re Grey
And I’ll sing you this song
On Valentine’s Day
For Valentine’s Day
Every Valentines Day