Think is characterized by its energetic rhythm and soulful lyrics, which discuss themes of empowerment and self-reflection. Critics have noted its similarity to Franklin's earlier hit Respect, describing it as a "pulsating swinger" with a strong performance. The song emphasizes the importance of thinking about one's actions and their impact on relationships.
One of the most famous renditions of Think was performed by Aretha Franklin in the 1980 film The Blues Brothers, where she played a diner owner named Mrs. Murphy. This performance is celebrated for its vibrant energy and has become iconic in film history. Franklin re-recorded Think for the film's soundtrack and later for her 1989 album Through the Storm. This updated version featured new arrangements by Arif Mardin.
Aretha Franklin is often referred to as the "Queen of Soul," and her contributions to music extend beyond this single. Throughout her career, she recorded numerous classics, including (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman and Chain of Fools. She achieved remarkable success with 20 No. 1 R&B singles and won 18 Grammy Awards, solidifying her status as a cultural icon.
Think
Aretha Franklin Lyrics
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Think about what you're trying to do to me
Think (think, think)
Let your mind go, let yourself be free
Let's go back, let's go back
Let's go way on, way back when
I didn't even know you
I ain't no psychiatrist, I ain't no doctor with degrees
But, it don't take too much high IQ's
To see what you're doing to me
You better think (think)
Think about what you're trying to do to me
Yeah, think (think, think)
Let your mind go, let yourself be free
Oh, freedom (freedom), freedom (freedom)
Oh, freedom, yeah, freedom
Freedom (freedom), oh, oh freedom (freedom)
Freedom, oh freedom
Hey, think about it, think about it
There ain't nothing you could ask
I could answer you but I won't (I won't)
But I was gonna change, but I'm not
If you keep doing things I don't
You better think (think)
Think about what you're trying to do to me
Oh Lord, think (think)
Let your mind go, let yourself be free
People walking around everyday
Playing games, taking scores
Trying to make other people lose their minds
Ah, be careful you don't lose yours, oh
Think (think)
Think about what you're trying to do to me, ooh
Think (think)
Let your mind go, let yourself be free
You need me (need me)
And I need you (don't you know)
Without each other there ain't nothing people can do, oh
Oh, hey, think about it, baby (What are you trying to do me)
Yeah, oh baby, think about it now, yeah
(Think about forgiveness, dream about forgiveness)
Think about forgiveness
Think about it, baby, baby
Think about forgiveness
Think about forgiveness
Think about forgiveness
The lyrics to Aretha Franklin's song Think are a message to the person she is addressing. She opens the song by insisting that this person needs to take a moment to think about their actions and the impact they are having on her. She encourages them to let go of their thoughts, to free themselves and consider the consequences of their actions. Franklin then takes the listener through a journey back in time to a point where she did not know this person, highlighting that this person is relatively new to her life. She acknowledges that she does not hold any professional degrees, but notes that it does not take one to recognize what the person is doing to her. She then reiterates her earlier point, urging the person to think about their actions and how they are affecting her.
The chorus of the song 'Think' highlights the importance of freedom. The songstress insists that she wants to be free and have the freedom to think of herself and to decide what she wants for herself. She implores the person to consider this and to let her be free. As the song ends, it becomes apparent that the message of the song is geared towards everyone. Franklin highlights that people walk around every day, playing games and trying to make other people lose their minds. In the end, she encourages people to think about their actions and consider the impact they might have on people.
Line by Line Meaning
You better think (think)
You need to think carefully and seriously about your actions toward me.
Think about what you're trying to do to me
Consider the impact of what you're doing to me and how it affects me.
Think (think, think)
Emphasizing the importance of thinking about the situation and taking it seriously.
Let your mind go, let yourself be free
Allow yourself to be liberated from any negative thoughts or feelings and let yourself think clearly.
Let's go back, let's go back
Let's return to a previous time when things were simpler.
Let's go way on, way back when
Let's go back to a distant time in the past.
I didn't even know you
We didn't have any prior relationship or connection.
You couldn't have been too much more than ten (just a child)
You were very young and inexperienced at the time.
I ain't no psychiatrist, I ain't no doctor with degrees
I don't have any professional qualifications, but I still know what's happening to me.
But, it don't take too much high IQ's
It doesn't take a genius to understand.
To see what you're doing to me
To recognize and comprehend the negative impact of the other person's actions.
Oh, freedom (freedom), freedom (freedom)
A joyful celebration of freedom and liberation.
Hey, think about it, think about it
Hey, take this seriously and think about it deeply.
There ain't nothing you could ask
There's nothing you could ask me that I don't already know.
I could answer you but I won't (I won't)
I don't feel like answering your questions.
But I was gonna change, but I'm not
I was planning to adjust and be more flexible, but you're making it hard for me to do so.
If you keep doing things I don't
If you continue to do things that upset me or go against my wishes.
People walking around everyday
Everyone around us in their daily lives.
Playing games, taking scores
Engaging in manipulative, competitive behavior in order to win or get ahead.
Trying to make other people lose their minds
Aiming to drive others crazy or upset them through their actions.
Ah, be careful you don't lose yours, oh
Be mindful to not let others get to you and make you lose your own sanity and composure.
You need me (need me)
You require me to fulfill your needs or desires.
And I need you (don't you know)
I also have needs that require your assistance or involvement.
Without each other there ain't nothing people can do, oh
We're dependent on each other, and without one another we can't accomplish much.
Think about forgiveness
Consider the idea of forgiveness and its healing powers.
Think about it, baby
Seriously contemplate and reflect on the situation, my dear.
Think about forgiveness
Again, think about the possibility of forgiveness as a resolution to our problems.
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, SPRINGTIME MUSIC INC
Written by: Aretha Franklin, Ted White
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@JoyClark-l7p
Who's listening in 2025?
@gbacrila
I'm listening ❤
@shamolimoni
❤
@MACKAYCHURCHCHRISELLIS
❤ME
@EnzoDBaker5309
There is no question as to why Aretha is known as the Queen of Soul...
@silkiescribbles
Love this lady RIP💖🕊️
@AndySaenz
I’m so glad her music will be here forever, for all future generations to discover this iconic singer!
@jxstadri
Yea, so they can know GOOD, UNIQUE TALENT.
@roxanarosado8706
Yes! Aretha forever!
@ladyt.thompson8992
Hi! Happy Easter, God lives through Aretha’s music, as she is spiritual, very! Because folk nowadays are deeply into witchcraft, voodoo, Santeria, Haitians, Hispanics some of them I have had to take to Federal court for trying to steal from me and tried to harm me because of my good work ethics for the Lord and the USA, when I prayed day and night of them giving me problems, God immediately stepped in to help me, and he slung them to the ground. God is good!🙏🏾❤️☀️☕️🥯🌼added note: I listen and pray to Aretha’s song “Think” in the morning and another very Talented Singer, Artist: Lynn Collins at night : “THINK” these songs keep you strong willed and strong mind to keep tackling any evil against you!🙏🏾😇⚡️🦋🌸