Albert Hammond’s “Everything I Want to Do” is a beautifully crafted soft rock ballad from his 1974 album, “Albert Hammond.” Known for his melodic storytelling and evocative lyrics, Hammond was a key figure in the early 1970s music scene, blending folk, pop, and rock influences. This song showcases his signature style—soulful, introspective, and brimming with heartfelt emotion.

Written by Hammond himself along with his frequent collaborator Mike Hazlewood, “Everything I Want to Do” captures the essence of youthful dreams and ambitions, while also exploring the bittersweet nature of love and life’s pursuits. The song’s lyrics express a yearning for freedom, fulfillment, and happiness, themes that resonated deeply with listeners during the mid-1970s—a period marked by social change and a search for individual meaning.

Although “Everything I Want to Do” didn’t reach the top of the charts like some of Hammond’s other hits—such as “It Never Rains in Southern California”—it remains a fan favorite for its poignant message and timeless quality. The song’s soft, breezy arrangement, featuring Hammond’s warm vocals, gentle acoustic guitars, and lush harmonies, makes it an ideal reflection of the introspective soft rock sound that dominated much of the decade.

Albert Hammond’s influence extended far beyond his own recordings. As a prolific songwriter, he penned hits for other major artists, such as Whitney Houston’s “One Moment in Time” and The Hollies’ “The Air That I Breathe.” His ability to tap into universal emotions is what has kept his music relevant over the years.

“Everything I Want to Do” is a gem that continues to touch those who appreciate sincere and emotive songwriting. For listeners who experienced the soft rock era firsthand or those discovering it anew, this track offers a heartfelt reminder of a simpler time, when music could speak directly to the dreams and desires of the soul.