I Put A Spell On You
DJ Premier/Mr. Thing Lyrics


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I put a spell on you because you're mine
You better stop the things that you do
I ain't lyin', no, I ain't lyin'
I just can't stand it babe
The way you're always runnin' 'round
I just can't stand it, the way you always put me down
I put a spell on you because you're mine
I put a spell on you because you're mine
You better stop the things that you do
I ain't lyin', no, I ain't lyin'
I just can't stand it babe
The way you're always runnin' 'round
I just can't stand it, the way you always put me down
I put a spell on you because you're mine




I put a spell on you. I put a spell on you
I put a spell on you. I put a spell on you

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of "I Put a Spell on You" are a declaration of possession and obsession. The singer/protagonist has cast a spell on the object of their affection because they feel that person belongs to them. The repetition of the chorus emphasizes the intensity of this feeling. The lyrics also reveal the singer's frustration and jealousy towards their beloved's behavior, which they see as disrespectful and hurtful. They're telling their partner to stop doing the things that drive them crazy, and warning them that they won't tolerate it anymore.


The song was originally written and performed by Screamin' Jay Hawkins in 1956, and it became one of his signature songs. Its original version was eerie and theatrical, featuring Hawkins' distinctive vocal and a haunting piano riff. Over the years, the song has been covered by numerous artists, including Nina Simone, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Marilyn Manson, and Annie Lennox.


Line by Line Meaning

I put a spell on you because you're mine
I cast a magical enchantment on you because I view you as belonging to me.


You better stop the things that you do
You should stop engaging in the actions that irritate, annoy or upset me.


I ain't lyin', no, I ain't lyin'
I am telling the truth and not being deceitful in any way.


I just can't stand it babe
I am intensely frustrated and irritated by your behavior.


The way you're always runnin' 'round
Your frequent, aimless movements are bothering me.


I just can't stand it, the way you always put me down
Your constant criticisms of me are making it difficult for me to tolerate you.


I put a spell on you. I put a spell on you
I emphasize my previous statement about using magic to influence your actions.




Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: JAY HAWKINS

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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