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Released in 1991

Peace - What People Want Is a Family Life

Written by Paul McCartney • Carl Davis

Last updated on July 11, 2019

Album This song officially appears on the Liverpool Oratorio Official album.

Timeline This song was officially released in 1991

Master album

Related songs

“What People Want Is a Family Life” is the third track of the eighth movement – entitled “Peace” – of Paul McCartney’s Liverpool Oratorio, released in 1991.

VIII: PEACE. Shanty sings to his new-born child, celebrating the wonder of being. In a sermon, the preacher sings of the frail magic of family life as Mary Dee and Shanty pledge a future with their child, together forever, celebrating a love that will now survive.

“Liverpool Oratorio” liner notes

Lyrics

PREACHER

What people want is a family life,

The strength of a home and a moat round

the castle.

Pull up the drawbridge,

Staying at home with the family.

All people want is a family life,

Sometimes they find that it isn't so easy.

People can argue,

Life can be hard on a family.

BASSES

Mum's in the kitchen,

she won't speak to Dad.

ALTOS

Uncle's ashamed of the good time he had.

TENORS

Brothers and sisters are lifting the roof

With the music they play all night.

PREACHER

But people still want a family life,

Nothing replaces the love and affection.

Pull up the drawbridge -

Tempers are frayed, but it's like that.

ALTOS

Don't be dismayed if it's like that.

BASSES

Like that.

PREACHER

You're not obeyed but you like that –

Family life.

BOYS and ALTOS

God is good.

In Him we'll live for ever,

Satisfied

Inside His grace and glory,

FULL CHORUS

Safe and sound

In His eternal love

We have found salvation.

Officially appears on

Live performances

“Peace - What People Want Is a Family Life” has been played in 6 concerts.

Latest concerts where “Peace - What People Want Is a Family Life” has been played

See all concerts where “Peace - What People Want Is a Family Life” has been played

Paul McCartney writing

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