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Cloud Cult Lyrics


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Once, twice, three times a lady
I'm sorry I can't love you
I'm mashed potatoes and gravy
I'm sorry I can't love you

Once, twice, three times a lady
I'm sorry I can't love you
I'm mashed potatoes and gravy
I'm sorry I can't love you





Overall Meaning

The lyrics to "17 Three Times A Lady" by Cloud Cult are a blunt admission of the singer's inability to reciprocate love. The repetition of "once, twice, three times a lady" reinforces the idea that the person they are addressing is worthy of love and respect, but unfortunately, the singer is not capable of fulfilling that emotional connection. The metaphor of being "mashed potatoes and gravy" adds to the somber tone of the song, suggesting that the singer is stuck in a monotonous routine and cannot break free from it to pursue a meaningful relationship.


Overall, the song explores themes of regret, personal limitations, and the complexities of love. The phrase "three times a lady" is a reference to the classic Commodores song "Three Times a Lady," which was about a man expressing his love and appreciation for a woman in his life.


One interesting fact about the song is that it was written and performed by Cloud Cult's lead singer and founder, Craig Minowa, as an ode to his wife Connie, who passed away from cancer in 2002. The band's music is often deeply personal and reflective of Minowa's own experiences, making their songs particularly poignant and meaningful.


Another interesting fact is that Cloud Cult is known for their environmentally conscious approach to music-making, often incorporating sustainable practices into their recording and touring process. They have also founded the non-profit organization Earthology, which aims to reduce the carbon footprint of musicians and promote sustainable living.


Here are the chords for "17 Three Times A Lady," as played by Cloud Cult:


Verse: D Am G D
Chorus: D Am G D


The song is played in common time at a moderate tempo, with a simple and repetitive chord progression that emphasizes the lyrics and vocal melody. The song has a melancholy feel, with the strumming pattern and gentle vocal delivery adding to the emotional impact of the lyrics.


Line by Line Meaning

Once, twice, three times a lady
I've loved you with all my heart and devotion, not just once or twice, but three times over.


I'm sorry I can't love you
Despite how much you deserve my love, I'm unable to reciprocate it.


I'm mashed potatoes and gravy
I'm just a simple, plain person like a bowl of mashed potatoes and gravy.


I'm sorry I can't love you
No matter how hard I try, I just can't force myself to have feelings for you.




Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: LIONEL RICHIE

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

Alec Timberlake

I have a signed poster from their 2007 Meaning of 8 tour. Craig signed it "Alec, thanks for being". it gets me out of bed. ❤

Gage Morgan

Ive almost ended it 20 times in a month but ive still got cloud cult.

Neal Klein

I feel moved to say, thank you for being. If their music helps you to keep being, then here I am hoping you keep listening. Sending love.

Sinkpehna RossFire

🎶😃🎶🤗...Through the Ages.... 6:00

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