“Two Occasions” is a quintessential R&B ballad by The Deele, released on December 23, 1987, as part of their third studio album, Eyes of a Stranger. The song was crafted by the talented trio of Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, Darnell “Dee” Bristol, and Sid Johnson, with production handled by Babyface and L.A. Reid. Notably, it features Babyface on lead vocals alongside Bristol and Carlos “Satin” Greene.
The lyrics of “Two Occasions” delve into the complexities of love, using seasonal metaphors to illustrate the different emotional experiences associated with romantic relationships.
The singer expresses a deep longing for a lasting connection, emphasizing that thoughts of his beloved occupy his mind day and night. This heartfelt expression of devotion highlights the contrast between fleeting romances and a more profound, enduring love.
Celebrated for its smooth melodies and emotional depth, “Two Occasions” has been recognized as a “quiet-storm classic,” peaking at number 10 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
In this article, we’ll explore the message conveyed in the song’s lyrics.
Table of Contents
“Two Occasions” Lyrics Meaning
Verse 1: Darnell Bristol
A summer love is beautiful
But it’s not enough
To satisfy emotions
That are shared between us
A winter love is cozy
But I need so much more
It just intensifies my wants
To have a love that endures
In this verse, the singer reflects on the nature of love through the lens of seasons. A summer love is described as beautiful but ultimately insufficient to fulfill deeper emotional needs.
The mention of winter love being cozy suggests comfort, yet it intensifies the desire for a more enduring connection. The singer expresses a yearning for a love that transcends fleeting moments and seasonal changes.
Pre-Chorus: Babyface
‘Cause every time I close my eyes
I think of you
And no matter what the season is
I still love you
With all my heart
And I wanna be with you
Wherever you are
This section emphasizes the singer’s deep emotional connection to the person he loves. Regardless of the season, his thoughts are consumed by this person.
The phrase “wherever you are” indicates a longing for physical presence and emotional closeness, reinforcing the idea that true love persists beyond circumstances.
Chorus: The Deele
I only think of you on two occasions
That’s day and night
I’d go for broke if I could be with you
Only you can make it right
The chorus captures the essence of the song’s title, stating that the singer thinks of this person only “on two occasions”: day and night. This phrase highlights an all-encompassing love that occupies his thoughts constantly.
The line “I’d go for broke if I could be with you” suggests a willingness to take risks or make sacrifices for this relationship, while “only you can make it right” underscores the idea that this person is essential to his happiness.
Verse 2: Carlos “Satin” Greene
An autumn love is special
At this time of the year
But when the leaves are gone
Does that love disappear?
I never underestimate the new love of spring
But I’m glad to say in my heart
I know my love’s lasting
In this verse, the singer reflects on autumn love, recognizing its beauty but questioning its permanence. The metaphor of leaves falling symbolizes how love can fade or disappear when circumstances change.
He acknowledges spring as a time for new love but expresses confidence in his own lasting feelings, suggesting that true love endures despite seasonal changes.
Repetition of Verse 1 and Pre-Chorus
A summer love is beautiful
But it’s not enough
To satisfy emotions
That are shared between us
A winter love is cozy
But I need so much more
It just intensifies my wants
To have a love that endures
The repetition reinforces the initial sentiments about love’s complexity and depth. It emphasizes that while seasonal loves have their charm, they may not fulfill deeper emotional needs.
The longing expressed in the pre-chorus remains consistent, highlighting an unwavering commitment to a lasting relationship.
Deeper Meaning Behind “Two Occasions”
“Two Occasions” by The Deele, featuring Babyface, is a classic love ballad that explores themes of deep emotional attachment and the enduring nature of love. Released in 1987, the song became notable not only for its catchy melody but also for its poignant lyrics that convey a heartfelt sentiment.
The central theme of “Two Occasions” revolves around the idea of constant longing and affection for a loved one. The lyrics express how the protagonist thinks about their partner at all times, encapsulated in the memorable line: “I only think of you on two occasions: that’s day and night.”
This metaphor highlights the intensity of the protagonist’s feelings, suggesting that their love is not just a fleeting emotion but a persistent presence in their life.
The song contrasts temporary romances with a more profound, lasting connection, emphasizing that true love goes beyond momentary pleasure to create a meaningful bond.
Throughout the verses, the singer reflects on the nature of relationships, suggesting that while some may start off exciting, they often lack longevity. In contrast, the relationship celebrated in “Two Occasions” is portrayed as serious and fulfilling.
The protagonist acknowledges an emotional dependency on their partner, indicating that this love is essential for their happiness and well-being.
The lyrics also imply that regardless of external circumstances—symbolized by different seasons—their love remains steadfast and unwavering. This notion is reinforced by references to both summer and winter, suggesting that true love can thrive in any situation.
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