About The Song
On January 18, 1986, Dionne & Friends’ “That’s What Friends Are For” achieved the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The inspiring song, emphasizing the importance of “keep smiling and keep shining,” was delivered by an extraordinary supergroup led by Dionne Warwick and featuring Elton John, Gladys Knight, and Stevie Wonder. Initially composed by the prolific duo Burt Bacharach and Carole Bayer Sager for the 1982 film “Night Shift,” the song gained attention when Rod Stewart recorded it for the movie’s closing credits, though it wasn’t released as a single.
Recognizing the song’s potential for success, the songwriters persuaded Warwick to record it in 1985, envisioning it as a duet with Wonder. Warwick agreed to the proposal, and later Knight and John joined in. Collectively, the group decided to transform it into a charity single to support AIDS research and prevention. This charitable initiative not only raised awareness but also generated $3 million for the cause. Beyond its role as an unofficial anthem in the fight against AIDS, “That’s What Friends Are For” claimed the title of the No. 1 song of 1986. The song received accolades, winning Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals and Song of the Year at the 1987 Grammys.
Video
Lyrics
And I never thought I’d feel this way
And as far as I’m concerned
I’m glad I got the chance to say
That I do believe I love you
And if I should ever go away
Well then, close your eyes and try
To feel the way we do today
And then if you can remember
Keep smiling, keep shining
Knowing you can always count on me for sure
That’s what friends are for
For good times and bad times
I’ll be on your side forevermore
That’s what friends are forWell, you came and opened me
And now there’s so much more I see
And so, by the way, I thank you
Oh, and then, for the times when we’re apart
Well then, close your eyes and know
These words are comin’ from my heart
And then if you can remember, ohKeep smiling, keep shining
Knowing you can always count on me for sure
That’s what friends are for
In good times, in bad times
I’ll be on your side forevermore
Oh, that’s what friends are for, ohKeep smiling, keep shining
Knowing you can always count on me for sure
That’s what friends are for
For good times and bad times
I’ll be on your side forevermore
That’s what friends are forKeep smiling, keep shining
Knowing you can always count on me, oh, for sure
‘Cause I tell you that’s what friends are for
For good times and for bad times
I’ll be on your side forevermore, oh
That’s what friends are for(Ha ha, that’s what friends are for)
(Ha ha, yeah)
On me for sure
Count on me for sure
Count on me for sure
That’s what friends are for
Keep smiling, keep shining