Body and Soul {Radio Days}
Benny Goodman & His Trio Lyrics

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My heart is sad and lonely
For you I sigh, for you dear only
Why haven't you seen it
I'm all for you body and soul

I spend my days in longing
And wondering why it's me you're wronging
I tell you I mean it

I'm all for you body and soul

I can't believe it
It's hard to conceive it
That you'd turn away romance
Are you pretending
It looks like the ending
Unless I could have just one more chance to prove, dear

My life a wreck you're making
You know I'm yours for just the taking
I'd gladly surrender myself to you body and soul

My life a wreck you're making

You know I'm yours for the very taking
I'd gladly surrender myself to you body and soul

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to Benny Goodman Trio's song "Body and Soul" express the deep longing and heartache of unrequited love. The singer is desperately in love with someone who seems to be either unaware of their feelings or purposely ignoring them. The lyrics convey a sense of vulnerability and a willingness to surrender oneself completely to this person. The use of the term "body and soul" further emphasizes the idea of giving oneself completely, both physically and emotionally, to the object of affection.

The first stanza sets the tone for the rest of the song, as the singer expresses their sadness and longing for this person. The second stanza adds a sense of confusion and frustration, as the singer wonders why they are being rejected. The third stanza expresses a desperate plea for one more chance to prove their love. Finally, the last stanza reinforces the singer's willingness to surrender themselves completely to this person, no matter the cost.

Overall, "Body and Soul" is a powerful and emotional song that conveys the intensity of unrequited love. The lyrics are simple yet poignant, and the melody adds to the sense of longing and heartache.

Line by Line Meaning

My heart is sad and lonely
I am afflicted with sorrow and loneliness

For you I sigh, for you dear only
My desire and yearning are only for you

Why haven't you seen it
I wonder why you have not noticed my affection

I'm all for you body and soul
You have captured my entire being and essence

I spend my days in longing
My days are consumed with intense desire

And wondering why it's me you're wronging
I question why you mistreat me

I tell you I mean it
I am earnest in my intentions

I'm all for you body and soul
You have complete ownership of my body and soul

I can't believe it
I am incredulous

It's hard to conceive it
It is difficult to comprehend

That you'd turn away romance
I cannot fathom why you would reject this love