Otis Redding needs no introduction either. his extraordinary voice exemplified to many listeners the power of southern 'deep soul' - hoarse, gritty vocals, brassy arrangements, and an emotional way with both party tunes and aching ballads. His death at the age of 26 was tragic because he seemed on the verge of breaking through to a wide pop audience (which he would indeed do with his posthumous #1 single, "(Sittin' on) the Dock of the Bay") as well as being at a point of artistic breakthrough in terms of the expression and sophistication.
Think
Aretha Franklin & Otis Redding Lyrics
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Think (think, think), let your mind go, let yourself be free
Let's go back, let's go back, let's go way on back when
I didn't even know you, you couldn't too much more than ten
I ain't no psychiatrist, I ain't no doctor with degrees
It don't take too much high IQ's to see what you're doing to me
Yeah, think (think, think) let your mind go, let yourself be free
Oh freedom (freedom), freedom (freedom), freedom, yeah freedom
Freedom (freedom), freedom (freedom), freedom, ooh freedom
Think about it, think about it
There ain't nothing you could ask I could answer you but I won't (I won't)
I was gonna change, but I'm not, to keep doing things I don't
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
People walking around everyday, playing games taking score
Trying to make other people lose their minds, ah, be careful you don't lose yours
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
You need me (need me) and I need you (don't you know)
Without each other there ain't nothing people can do
Think about it baby
The lyrics to Aretha Franklin's "Think" are a powerful call to action, encouraging the listener to take a step back and carefully consider their actions and motivations. The song begins with a direct command to "think about what you're trying to do" and to let your mind be free, indicating that the subject of the song is feeling trapped or manipulated in some way. As the song progresses, Aretha discusses the idea of "freedom" several times, underscoring the importance of independence and autonomy. She also warns about the dangers of playing games and trying to make others lose their minds, urging the listener to be careful not to lose their own sense of self in the process.
The message of "Think" is particularly poignant in light of the Civil Rights Movement, which was at its height when the song was released in the late 1960s. The call for freedom and independence had powerful resonance for many Black Americans who were fighting for their rights and their dignity at the time. The use of the word "freedom" in the song is intentional and purposeful, underscoring the importance of these concepts to the broader social and political context of the moment.
Line by Line Meaning
You better think (think) think about what you're trying to do to me
Think (think, think), let your mind go, let yourself be free
You should carefully consider the consequences of your actions and let go of any inhibitions or restrictions.
Let's go back, let's go back, let's go way on back when
I didn't even know you, you couldn't too much more than ten
I ain't no psychiatrist, I ain't no doctor with degrees
It don't take too much high IQ's to see what you're doing to me
Let's reminisce about the time when we first met and you were just a child. I may not have formal qualifications, but even someone without a high IQ can see your manipulative intentions towards me.
Oh freedom (freedom), freedom (freedom), freedom, yeah freedom
Freedom (freedom), freedom (freedom), freedom, ooh freedom
Think about it, think about it
Freedom is essential and should be treasured. Take a moment to consider what true freedom means to you.
There ain't nothing you could ask I could answer you but I won't (I won't)
I was gonna change, but I'm not, to keep doing things I don't
I can't answer any of your questions and I won't. I thought about changing my ways, but I won't continue doing things that don't make sense to me.
People walking around everyday, playing games taking score
Trying to make other people lose their minds, ah, be careful you don't lose yours
People are always playing games and keeping score, which can be harmful to others. Be careful not to get caught up in this and lose your own mind.
You need me (need me) and I need you (don't you know)
Without each other there ain't nothing people can do
Think about it baby
We both need each other to be complete, and without each other, we can't accomplish anything. Think about the importance of our connection.
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner/Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: ARETHA FRANKLIN, TED WHITE
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Gabrielle
Imagine if they could have sing this together on stage... So sad we lost Otis so soon 😢
frdjr252
R-E-S-P-E-C-T to both Otis and Aretha! Nicely done mix!
Hamida Ramondou
Ce duo c'était une évidence deux ténors du Rythm ' Blues . Je ne m'en lasse pas .
Jan Jacobs
that was put together brilliantly, much RESPECT to ARETHA and OTIS
Cool
Masterful! I wonder if they ever performed this live? Would love to see that or at least hear it!
Linda Lee
Love it, love these great singers Otis & Aretha forever 8-15-18
Ronald Maki
Hello Linda
Paul Chandler
Wow. I always loved both versions but felt like they were almost like different songs.
Michele Tranchida
Meravigliosa versione. Otis e Aretha inimitabili.
Pam Juggins
Just ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!!! TWO OF MY MAIN MAIN FAVOURITES 'TOGETHER'! What more could one ask for.
Rick Coleman
Masterful! I wonder if they ever performed this live? Would love to see that or at least hear it!