I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues Lyrics Explained
Elton John’s iconic song “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues” has been a staple on radio stations for over three decades now. One cannot help singing along to its catchy tune and memorable chorus.
But how many people stop to ponder the meaning behind the lyrics? In this section, we will explore the song’s lyrics in detail. By analyzing the emotions and themes conveyed in the lyrics, we can gain a deeper understanding of why this song has become such a beloved classic.
Key Takeaways
- Elton John’s “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues” is an iconic track that has endured for over 30 years.
- The lyrics of the song explore themes of melancholy, longing, and the complexities of love.
- By analyzing the lyrics, we can gain insights into the inspiration behind the song and its lyrical depth.
- The song remains a testament to Elton John’s lyrical prowess and ability to evoke profound emotions through music.
The Story Behind “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues”
Elton John’s classic hit “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues” was written in collaboration with his longtime lyricist, Bernie Taupin. The song was released as a single from John’s album “Too Low for Zero” in 1983 and went on to become one of his most beloved tracks.
The inspiration for the song came from Taupin’s fascination with the blues and his desire to write a song in that style. According to Taupin, the lyrics were inspired by the idea of a person who experiences feelings of loneliness and loss, despite having everything they could want materially.
John added his own musical touch, crafting a melody and arrangement that blended elements of blues, pop, and rock. The result was a song that perfectly captured the mood and emotions of Taupin’s lyrics.
One notable influence on the song was legendary opera singer Jessye Norman. Taupin had seen Norman perform a rendition of a blues song during a concert and was struck by the way she brought a sense of emotion and longing to the genre. This led to him incorporating some of the same themes and feelings into “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues.”
Overall, “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues” stands as a testament to the creative partnership between John and Taupin, as well as their ability to tap into the deep emotions and complex themes that make music so impactful.
An Analysis of “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues” Lyrics
Elton John’s “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues” is a powerful song that conveys a range of emotions through its lyrics. In this section, we will conduct a line-by-line analysis of the song’s lyrics to gain a deeper understanding of the themes and emotions it showcases.
The opening line, “Don’t wish it away, don’t look at it like it’s forever,” reveals a sense of melancholy and longing, suggesting the impermanence of things we cherish in life. The use of the word “forever” highlights the idea that life is fleeting and we should cherish every moment.
The chorus, “And I guess that’s why they call it the blues, time on my hands could be time spent with you,” speaks to the complexities of love and relationships. The song suggests that “the blues” is a feeling that arises when we long for someone but cannot be with them for various reasons.
The second verse continues with this theme, “Lately I’ve been winning battles left and right, but even winners can get wounded in the fight,” emphasizing that even those who appear strong and successful can still experience emotional pain and vulnerability.
The bridge, “So before they come to break down the door, forgive me, darling, I won’t see you anymore,” adds a sense of urgency and desperation to the song, highlighting the need to express our feelings before it’s too late.
Overall, the lyrics of “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues” showcase powerful emotions of melancholy, longing, and the complexities of love. By examining the lyrics in detail, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the song’s lyrical depth and understand the emotions and themes it seeks to express.
Conclusion
The lyrics of “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues” by Elton John offer a poignant glimpse into the human experience of longing and emotional turmoil. Through the detailed analysis, we have gained insights into the inspiration behind the song, as well as the meaning and themes embedded in the lyrics.
The song is a testament to Elton John’s lyrical prowess and ability to evoke profound emotions through music. The melancholic yet uplifting melody complements the complexity of the lyrics, creating a masterpiece that remains a beloved classic to this day.
Through this exploration of “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues” lyrics, we can appreciate the depth of meaning and emotions conveyed in the song. It serves as a reminder of the enduring power of music to connect us and express the complexities of the human experience.
FAQ
What are the lyrics to Elton John’s “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues?”
The lyrics to “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues” by Elton John are about the complex emotions of longing and heartbreak. They convey a sense of melancholy and the difficulties of navigating love.
What is the meaning behind the lyrics of “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues?”
The lyrics of “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues” explore the universal experience of yearning for someone and the pain that comes with unrequited love. They touch upon themes of loneliness and the longing for a deep emotional connection.
How did Elton John and Bernie Taupin come up with the idea for the song?
Elton John and his longtime collaborator, Bernie Taupin, were inspired by the blues genre and the emotional depth it conveys. Taupin crafted the poignant lyrics that captured the essence of longing and melancholy, while John composed the music that perfectly complemented the emotional nuances of the lyrics.
Did Jessye Norman have any influence on the song?
Yes, Jessye Norman, a renowned opera singer, had a significant influence on “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues.” Her powerful and emotive singing style inspired Elton John’s delivery of the song, contributing to its heartfelt and emotionally charged performance.
What emotions and themes are conveyed through the lyrics of “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues?”
The lyrics of “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues” evoke emotions of melancholy, longing, and heartache. They explore themes of unrequited love, the complexities of relationships, and the universal experience of longing for a deep emotional connection.
What is the significance of “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues” in Elton John’s discography?
“I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues” remains a standout track in Elton John’s extensive discography. Its introspective lyrics and emotive melody showcase his lyrical prowess and ability to convey profound emotions through music, making it a beloved fan favorite.