Cherish is a romantic ballad by Kool & the Gang, released in May 1985 as the third single from their 1984 album Emergency. The track marked a significant shift for the band, moving from their 1970s funk roots to a smoother, pop-oriented sound that broadened their commercial appeal.
James “J.T.” Taylor wrote the lyrics in a single sitting after being inspired by watching the band’s children play on a beach in the Bahamas, where the group recorded at Compass Point Studios. Ronald Bell composed the synth-driven melody, handing it to Taylor who felt it was one of the few times he wrote a song without needing revisions.
The song achieved massive success, peaking at number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 (held off the top spot by Dire Straits’ “Money for Nothing”) and reaching number 1 on both the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs and Adult Contemporary charts. Its enduring legacy is defined by its use as a staple wedding song, celebrated for its heartfelt message of appreciating love and life’s fleeting moments.
A notable cover was released in 1997 by Pappa Bear featuring Jan van der Toorn, which reimagined the ballad as an energetic eurodance track. This version topped the charts in New Zealand and received platinum certification there, while also achieving gold status in Australia.
[Verse 1]
Let’s take a walk together near the ocean shore
Hand in hand, you and I
Let’s cherish every moment we have been given
For time is passing by
I often pray before I lay down by your side
If you receive your calling before I awake
Could I make it through the night?
[Chorus]
Cherish the love we have
We should cherish the life we live (oh)
Cherish the love, cherish the life, cherish the love
[Verse 2]
The world is always changing, nothing stays the same
But love will stand the test of time
The next life that we live in remains to be seen
Will you be by my side
I often pray before I lay down by your side
And if you receive your calling before I awake
Could I make it through the night?
[Chorus]
Cherish the love we have
We should cherish the life we live (Baby, yeah)
Cherish the love, cherish the life, cherish the love
Cherish the love we have
(Let’s cherish every moment we have together)
For as long as we both shall live
(Hand in hand, you and I)
Cherish the love, cherish the life, cherish the love
[Spoken]
Cherish the love
Cherish the life
[Chorus]
Cherish the love we have
We should cherish the life we live
Cherish the love, cherish the life, cherish the love
Cherish the love we have
For as long as we both shall live
Cherish the love, cherish the life, cherish the love
[Outro]
Cherish the love we have
(Let’s cherish every moment we have together)
We should cherish the life we live
(Hand in hand, you and I)
Cherish the love, cherish the life, cherish the love
