The song "Got You As A Friend" by Jimmy Barnes tells a story of perseverance, finding hope, and the importance of genuine friendship in difficult times. The lyrics convey the singer's experiences and struggles in life, symbolized by phrases like "I’ve been down too many reasons why" and "I’ve walked on water until my well ran dry." These lines suggest that the singer has faced numerous challenges and reached a point of exhaustion or depletion. The song talks about the fading of a shallow life and the feeling of being jaded. Despite these hardships, having someone as a friend becomes a source of comfort and support. The lyrics emphasize that having genuine friendship is more valuable than material things or success. The line "I don’t care if I’ve got you as a friend" shows that the singer values this connection above anything else. The song also touches on the fleeting nature of life and dreams by expressing that it "seems like there's no tomorrow" and that the dreams the singer had were borrowed. This implies that the singer may have faced disappointments or setbacks in pursuing their aspirations. However, despite the struggles, the lyrics emphasize the significance of having that true friend. The lines "You to me the most precious thing, God has left me. Heaven knows where I'd be right now, without the love you sent me" highlight the deep gratitude and appreciation the singer feels for their friend's support and love. The song concludes with the belief that even if everything else fades away, including material possessions or external successes, having the friend's support and companionship is what truly matters. The lyrics express that it doesn't matter if the day fades to black or if the shine gets faded because with the friend's help, the singer can find their way back and overcome any obstacles. Overall, "Got You As A Friend" explores the themes of facing challenges, finding solace in friendship, and recognizing the value of genuine connections in navigating life's ups and downs.
