While ARS would never reach the commercial success of Lynyrd Skynyrd or the Marshall Tucker Band, the group had a strong following in the south and charted a number of hits such as "Imaginary Lover," "I'm Not Going to Let it Bother Me Tonight," "Champagne Jam," "So Into You," and a remake of a Classics IV hit, "Spooky."
The band also influenced a number of rock and country artists, notably Travis Tritt, who recorded a cover of the ARS songs, "Back Up Against the Wall" and "Homesick." The group Shudder to Think covered "So Into You."
Southern Exposure
Atlanta Rhythm Section Lyrics
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never turn you down
when all the others turn you away
they're around
it's my private pleasure
midnight fantasy
someone to share my
wildest dreams with me
imaginary lovers, oh yeah
When ordinary lovers
don't feel what you feel
and real-life situations lose their thrill
imagination's unreal
imaginary lover, imaginary lover
you're mine anytime
Imaginary lovers never disagree
they always care
they're always there when
you need satisfaction guaranteed
imaginary lover, imaginary lover
you're mine all the time
my imaginary lover
you're mine anytime
The lyrics to "Imaginary Lover" by the Atlanta Rhythm Section speak to the idea of having an imaginary love interest, someone who is always there for you and never turns you down, unlike the real-life lovers who may disappoint. The song likens the idea of an imaginary lover to a personal pleasure or fantasy, someone with whom to share your wildest dreams. The lyrics suggest that this imaginary lover is a source of comfort and satisfaction that can be relied on, unlike real-life relationships that can be unpredictable and disheartening.
The song's lyrics also seem to touch on the idea of the power of imagination, how it can be used to create a perfect partner who fulfills all of our desires and needs. The idea of an imaginary lover is one that many people can relate to, as it speaks to the human desire for companionship and love, and the frustration that can come with real-life relationships.
Overall, the lyrics of "Imaginary Lover" capture a strong feeling of longing and desire, and they speak to the idea that sometimes our imaginations can be our most powerful tools when it comes to finding personal fulfillment and happiness.
Line by Line Meaning
Imaginary lovers
This song is about the concept of having an imaginary lover, someone who exists only in your mind.
Never turn you down
Your imaginary lover will never reject you or let you down, unlike real people who may have their own needs and limitations.
When all the others turn you away
In times of trouble or loneliness, real people may not always be there for you, but your imaginary lover always will.
They're around
Your imaginary lover is always present and available to you, like a comforting presence.
It's my private pleasure
Having an imaginary lover is a private and personal pleasure, something that can't be shared with others.
Midnight fantasy
The concept of an imaginary lover is often associated with fantasies and daydreams that occur late at night when you're alone with your thoughts.
Someone to share my wildest dreams with me
Your imaginary lover is someone who you can share your deepest desires and fantasies with, without fear of judgement or rejection.
Imaginary lover you're mine anytime
Your imaginary lover is always available to you, whenever you need them, providing comfort and companionship.
When ordinary lovers don't feel what you feel
Real people may not always understand or share the intensity of your emotions, but your imaginary lover always will.
And real-life situations lose their thrill
Real-life relationships can become mundane or routine over time, but your imaginary lover exists solely to provide excitement and stimulation.
Imagination's unreal
Although your imaginary lover may feel real to you, they are ultimately a creation of your own imagination and not a tangible, physical person.
Imaginary lover, imaginary lover
Repeating the phrase 'imaginary lover' emphasizes the central theme of the song and reinforces the idea of this non-existent but powerful presence.
You're mine anytime
Your imaginary lover belongs to you alone and can be summoned at any time for comfort, solace, or companionship.
Imaginary lovers never disagree
Unlike real people, your imaginary lover will never argue, contradict, or criticize you, providing a constant source of support and positivity.
They always care
Your imaginary lover cares for you deeply and unconditionally, without the complications or limitations of real-life relationships.
They're always there when you need satisfaction guaranteed
Your imaginary lover is a reliable source of emotional satisfaction and fulfillment, providing a guaranteed response when you need it most.
You're mine all the time
Your imaginary lover exists entirely for your own benefit and pleasure, always available and devoted to you.
My imaginary lover
Repeating the possessive 'my' emphasizes the intimate and personal connection between the singer and their imaginary lover.
You're mine anytime
The final line reinforces the enduring nature of this imagined relationship and underscores the central theme of the song.
Contributed by Michael J. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Joe Blo
on Indigo Passion
I think the 4th line should read: "And all of the HUES in between."
love.