Tjader (pronounced "chay-der") primarily played the vibraphone. He was also accomplished on the drums, bongos, congas, timpani, and the piano. He worked with numerous musicians from several cultures. He is often linked to the development of Latin rock and acid jazz. Although fusing jazz with Latin music is often categorized as "Latin jazz" (or, earlier, "Afro-Cuban jazz"), Tjader's output swung freely between both styles.
Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea
Cal Tjader Lyrics
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You've got me in between the devil and the deep blue sea
I forgive you, 'cause I can't forget you
You've got me in between the devil and the deep blue sea
[Repeat: x2]
I ought to cross you off my list
But when you come a-knocking at my door
And I come running back for more
I should hate you, but I guess I love you
You've got me in between the devil and the deep blue sea
You've got me in between the devil and the deep blue sea
The devil and the deep blue sea
The lyrics of Cal Tjader's "Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea" tell a story of conflicted emotions and difficult choices. The singer admits that they don't want their lover, but they also can't bear the thought of losing them. They feel caught between two impossible options - the devil and the deep blue sea - with no easy way out. The lyrics describe the challenges of coming to terms with complex feelings and the struggle to find a path forward.
The repeated refrain of being "in between the devil and the deep blue sea" emphasizes the sense of being trapped and surrounded by danger on all sides. The singer acknowledges that they should move on, but something keeps pulling them back - perhaps a sense of nostalgia, or a fear of being alone. Despite the frustration and internal conflict, the lyrics also hint at a sense of acceptance and resignation. The singer forgives their lover, even though they can't forget them, and resolves to face the difficult choices ahead.
Overall, the lyrics of "Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea" capture the complex mix of emotions that can arise in a difficult relationship. The song is a testament to the power of music to express the complexities of human experience and to help people find meaning and connection in their lives.
Line by Line Meaning
I don't want you, but I'd hate to lose you
I have mixed feelings about our relationship because I don't want to be with you but I also don't want to lose you as a partner.
You've got me in between the devil and the deep blue sea
You have put me in a difficult position where I have to choose between two equally unpleasant or difficult options.
I forgive you, 'cause I can't forget you
Even though you have hurt me, I can't stop thinking about you and I have to forgive you to move on.
I ought to cross you off my list
I know that I should remove you from my life and forget about you.
But when you come a-knocking at my door
But when you reach out to me and try to reconnect, I find it difficult to say no.
Fate seems to give my heart a twist
It seems like destiny is playing a role in our relationship and despite my intentions to stay away, I am drawn back towards you.
And I come running back for more
I can't resist the temptation to be with you even though I know it might not be the best choice for me.
I should hate you, but I guess I love you
Although I know I shouldn't have feelings for you, I can't help but love you despite the pain you have caused me.
You've got me in between the devil and the deep blue sea
You continue to put me in a difficult situation where I have to make a choice between two bad options.
The devil and the deep blue sea
This phrase refers to being caught in a dilemmatic situation where both choices are equally difficult or unpleasant.
Lyrics © S.A. MUSIC, Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: HAROLD ARLEN, TED KOEHLER
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind