He has also worked in collaboration with instrumental performers including pianist Chick Corea and cellist Yo-Yo Ma. This collaboration has established him as an ambassador of both the classical and jazz worlds. His recordings have sold over 20 million copies.
In addition to his vocal performing career, Mr. McFerrin was appointed in 1994 as creative chair of the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra.
He is the subject of a persistent yet wholly unfounded rumour that he has committed suicide. The rumor was so strong that the official Bobby McFerrin FAQ addressed the question.
Mr. McFerrin and his oft-maligned hit "Don't Worry, Be Happy" were parodied on "The Simpsons" as "I'm Worried - Need Money".
07. I Hear Music
Bobby McFerrin Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Some girls just want some fun
Some look for devotion
Some just wanna run
Some crave for affection
Burnin' up inside
Some need the direction
For the world outside
But I'll tell you where I'm comin' from
I wanna hear your soul' talkin'
Wanna hear your soul' talkin'
Wanna hear your soul' talkin'
It's the heart of the matter
It's the root of the cause
It's the still of the moment
It's that heavenly pause
Well I don't need a savior
And I don't need a slave
I just want to hear you
Through that magnetic wave
What I need is a link to the inner mind
If you want to know my bottom line
In "I Hear Music," Bobby McFerrin discusses the various things people look for in relationships, and the deeper connection he desires. He acknowledges that some people seek emotions, some just want to have fun, some need affection, and some crave direction in life. However, he sets himself apart by stating that he wants to hear someone's "soul talkin'," to access the heart of the matter, root causes and still moments. He yearns for a person who will not be his savior or slave but someone he can connect with on a deeper level.
The verses in the song imply that people approach relationships differently. Some want stability, while others seek spontaneity. However, in the chorus, McFerrin shift gears and expresses a longing for a connection that transcends surface-level attraction or personality. He wants to create a deep understanding with someone else by unlocking the deepest parts of their soul. By doing so, he can discover their true identity and connect on a more profound level. In this song, Bobby McFerrin is searching for a deeper connection, beyond just a physical one, and is asking the listener to meet him there.
Line by Line Meaning
Some girls need emotion
There are some women who require emotional support and connection.
Some girls just want some fun
Other women seek excitement and entertainment.
Some look for devotion
Some women are searching for loyalty and faithfulness in a romantic partner.
Some just wanna run
Others crave for independence and freedom more than anything else.
Some crave for affection
Certain women yearn for physical and emotional displays of love and attention.
Burnin' up inside
They feel restless and anxious about something important.
Some need the direction
They need guidance and support when it comes to navigating life outside of themselves.
For the world outside
This guidance is essential if they are going to succeed or find their place in the world.
You can dance the dance 'til the mornin' comes
There are many different ways to spend your time, to enjoy yourself and to celebrate life.
But I'll tell you where I'm comin' from
I will share with you my perspective and what is most important to me.
I wanna hear your soul' talkin'
I am not just interested in what you do, but also in who you are and what is most meaningful to you.
It's the heart of the matter
This is the essential core of what really matters in life.
It's the root of the cause
Understanding the underlying motivators for our actions is necessary to enact change.
It's the still of the moment
It is when we are quiet and just present that we can truly connect with ourselves and others.
It's that heavenly pause
This brief respite from the chaotic nature of life can feel like a divine and priceless gift.
Well I don't need a savior
I am self-sufficient and do not need someone to rescue me or tell me what to do.
And I don't need a slave
Nor do I want someone who will take orders from me or give up their agency.
I just want to hear you
I just want to know the real you and understand what drives and motivates you.
Through that magnetic wave
Whether it be through energy, empathy, or just conversation, I want to feel connected and attracted to you.
What I need is a link to the inner mind
I am looking for a connection between hearts and souls, and for intimacy and authenticity.
If you want to know my bottom line
If you really want to understand what I'm about and what's important to me, this is it.
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: BURTON LANE, FRANK LOESSER
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind