Sophisticated Lady
Bjarne Nerem Lyrics


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Sophisticated lady tryin' to change my ways
Just because you're caught in your social maze
I think it's 'bout time that you realize
Your money and your power's got you mesmerized

Pretty lady, get back
Pretty lady, yea
Sophisticated lady put your blue jeans on
You're anybody's baby when your mama's gone

Educated lady with your college degree
Amazes me why you just can't see
Learned everything from your books on the shelf
But no one ever taught you how to think for yourself

Pretty lady, get back
Pretty lady, yea, sweet thing
Sophisticated lady put your blue jeans on
You're anybody's baby when your mama's gone

Sophisticated lady take a lesson from me
I can help you be what you want to be
Together we'll see many brighter days
If it takes forever, gonna change your ways

Pretty lady, get back
Pretty lady, yea, sweet thing
Sophisticated lady put your blue jeans on
You're anybody's baby when your mama's gone

Sophisticated lady put your blue jeans on
You're anybody's baby when your mama's gone





Sophisticated lady put your blue jeans on
You're anybody's baby when your mama's gone

Overall Meaning

In "Sophisticated Lady," Bjarne Nerem sings about a woman who is trying to change him and his ways, but he believes that she needs to realize that her money and power have blinded her. The song speaks to the idea that social status does not necessarily equate to wisdom or personal fulfillment. The use of the phrase "sophisticated lady" has a double meaning - on one hand it could refer to a woman who is refined and high class, but on the other hand, it is a commentary on how easily people can become trapped in societal norms and expectations.


The lyrics speak to the idea of personal agency and the importance of being true to oneself. The line about how the educated lady has learned everything from her books on the shelf, but no one taught her how to think for herself, highlights the idea that education and social status may not necessarily lead to personal growth and development. The song suggests that the woman needs to take a step back and find her own path in life, rather than just conforming to societal expectations.


One of the most interesting things about the song "Sophisticated Lady" is its history. The song was originally composed by Duke Ellington in 1933 as an instrumental piece, but lyrics were later added by Irving Mills and Mitchell Parish. Over the years, many artists and groups have covered the song, including Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole, and Stevie Wonder. Another interesting fact about the song is that Bjarne Nerem was a Norwegian jazz musician, known for his smooth, mellow sound. He recorded several albums throughout his career and was considered one of the country's leading jazz artists.


Line by Line Meaning

Sophisticated lady tryin' to change my ways
A woman who is trying to change me, but she herself is stuck in the social norms.


Just because you're caught in your social maze
You are limited by the expectations and norms of society.


I think it's 'bout time that you realize
It is the right time for you to wake up and acknowledge the reality.


Your money and your power's got you mesmerized
Your wealth and influence have captivated you.


Pretty lady, get back
Hey beautiful woman, step back and think.


Pretty lady, yea
Hey pretty woman, yes you.


Sophisticated lady put your blue jeans on
Take a break from your extravagant lifestyle and be casual for once.


You're anybody's baby when your mama's gone
You become vulnerable and dependent like a child when you are alone.


Educated lady with your college degree
A woman who has acquired academic qualifications through college education.


Amazes me why you just can't see
It surprises me why you are unable to see the reality.


Learned everything from your books on the shelf
You have learned everything from the books you have, but they don't teach you everything.


But no one ever taught you how to think for yourself
You were never taught how to be independent in your thoughts and decisions.


Sophisticated lady take a lesson from me
Hey sophisticated woman, learn a thing or two from me.


I can help you be what you want to be
I can assist you in achieving your aspirations and ambitions.


Together we'll see many brighter days
We will have better days together as a team.


If it takes forever, gonna change your ways
Even if it takes a long time, I will help you change your ways.


Sophisticated lady put your blue jeans on
Hey sophisticated woman, wear something casual for a change.


You're anybody's baby when your mama's gone
You become vulnerable and dependent like a child when you are alone.


Sophisticated lady put your blue jeans on
Hey sophisticated woman, put on something casual for a change.


You're anybody's baby when your mama's gone
You become vulnerable and dependent like a child when you are alone.




Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Edward Kennedy Ellington, Irving Mills, Mitchell Parish

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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