About the song
**Introduction to “Nothing from Nothing”**
“Nothing from Nothing,” a standout track by Billy Preston, epitomizes the vibrant and innovative spirit of 1970s music. Written by Preston and collaborator Bruce Fisher, the song was a defining feature of Preston’s 1974 album *The Kids & Me*. This exuberant single climbed to the pinnacle of the Billboard Hot 100 chart in October 1974, where it claimed the number one spot for a week. Its success marked Preston’s second solo chart-topper, following his earlier hit “Will It Go Round in Circles.” The track’s chart presence was notably strong, remaining on the Billboard Hot 100 for an impressive four and a half months.
The song’s infectious energy and catchy rhythm made it a memorable and influential piece of its time. Its debut on *Saturday Night Live* was particularly historic, as Preston’s performance of “Nothing from Nothing” was the first musical act ever featured on the show, setting a precedent for future performances and solidifying the song’s place in pop culture history.
Beyond its chart success, “Nothing from Nothing” has enjoyed enduring popularity through various media appearances. In late 2002, the song was prominently featured in General Motors commercials, showcasing its timeless appeal to a new generation of listeners. It also made notable appearances in film, including the 1975 low-budget heist film *Flash and the Firecat* and the 2008 quirky comedy *Be Kind Rewind*.
The song’s influence extends into literature as well; it is mentioned in James Baldwin’s novel *Just Above My Head*, highlighting its cultural impact. Additionally, in 2024, “Nothing from Nothing” was featured in the Apple TV+ animated special *Snoopy Presents: Welcome Home, Franklin*, further demonstrating its lasting charm and relevance across different media platforms.
“Nothing from Nothing” remains a testament to Billy Preston’s dynamic artistry and the era’s vibrant musical landscape. Its blend of energetic performance and memorable lyrics continues to resonate with audiences, affirming its status as a classic and beloved piece of music history.
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Lyrics
Nothin’ from nothin’ leaves nothin’
You gotta have somethin’ if you wanna be with me
Nothin’ from nothin’ leaves nothin’
You gotta have somethin’ if you wanna be with me
I’m not tryin’ to be your hero
‘Cause that zero is too cold for me (Brr)
I’m not tryin’ to be your highness
‘Cause that minus is too low to see, yeah
Nothin’ from nothin’ leaves nothin’
And I’m not stuffin’, believe you me
Don’t you remember I told ya
I’m a soldier in the war on poverty, yeah
Yes, I am
Nothin’ from nothin’ leaves nothin’
You gotta have somethin’ if you wanna be with me
Nothin’ from nothin’ leaves nothin’
You gotta have somethin’ if you wanna be with me
That’s right, ha, yeah
Gotta have somethin’ if you wanna be with me
You gotta bring me somethin’ girl
If you wanna be with me