Alfie (Bacharach- David) From the 1966 Michael Caine Film
This is as I hear the song as recorded in 1966 by Cilla Black and Burt Bacharach
There is not much difference in the arrangement between the Cilla and the Dionne
Version apart from their individual styles and abilities. Cilla, despite being
challenged by the song, does a better version in my opinion as her vulnerability
suits the film better, Dionne is too polished and comfortable.
Verse 1
What is it all about, Alfie?
Is it just for the moment we live?
What is it all about when you sort it out, Alfie?
Cm7 Edim add A
Or, are we meant to take more than we give,
or are we meant to be kind?
And if,
Verse 2
only fools are kind, Alfie,
Then I guess it is wise to be cruel.
And if life belongs only to the strong, Alfie,
Cm7 Edim add A
what will you lend on an old golden rule?
Bridge
Am7 Em7 Fm6 Gm7 Am7 Gm9 C13 (=Bbmaj7/C)
As sure as I believe there is a heaven above, Alfie,
I know there is something much more,
something even non-believers can believe in.
End
I believe in love, Alfie.
Without true love we just exist, Alfie.
Em7dim5 Eb9 Dm7 Gm7 C7 C9 Arpeggio
Until you find the love you have missed you are nothing, Alfie.
When you walk let your heart lead the way
and you'll find love any day, Alfie, Alfie.