Don't You Know I Care
Duke Ellington & His Famous Orchestra;Al Hibbler Lyrics


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Don't you know I care
Or don't you care to know?
If you know I care,
How could you hurt me so.
Darling, you are part of ev'ry breath I take
Will you break my heart
Or give my heart a break?
I can't figure out what love's all about,
And where I fit into your scheme.
Am I wasting time, please tell me
Cause I'm down to my last dream.
Won't you please be fair,
Love me or let me go




Don't you know I care
Or don't you care to know?

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to Duke Ellington & His Famous Orchestra; Al Hibbler's song "Don't You Know I Care" depict the raw emotion and vulnerability of someone who is unsure of their place in a romantic relationship. The singer in the song is pleading with their partner to acknowledge the love they have for them, asking if they even care to know. Despite their love, the singer feels hurt by their partner's actions and wonders if they will be the one to break their heart or if they will finally give it a break. The singer is uncertain of where they fit into their partner's life and if their time and emotions are being wasted.


The emotions portrayed in the song are relatable and speak to the uncertainties and doubts one may have in a romantic relationship. The lyrics are powerful and express a deep longing for love and understanding. The song is a reminder that even in love, there can be fear and pain, but it is worth it to fight for what you want.


Overall, "Don't You Know I Care" is a poignant and emotional depiction of love and the struggles that can come with it. The vulnerability and honesty of the lyrics make it a timeless classic that will continue to resonate with listeners for years to come.


Line by Line Meaning

Don't you know I care
I have strong feelings for you and I hope you are aware of that


Or don't you care to know?
Do you not care about my feelings and emotions?


If you know I care,
Assuming you're aware of my feelings,


How could you hurt me so.
Why would you treat me poorly if you know how much I care about you?


Darling, you are part of ev'ry breath I take
You are a significant part of my life and I cannot imagine living without you


Will you break my heart
Are you going to cause me emotional pain and suffering?


Or give my heart a break?
Or will you ease my emotions and bring me joy and happiness?


I can't figure out what love's all about,
I am confused about the nature of love


And where I fit into your scheme.
I am uncertain about my role in your life


Am I wasting time, please tell me
I need to know if my devotion to you is futile


Cause I'm down to my last dream.
I am left with nothing else but hope in this relationship


Won't you please be fair,
Can you treat me justly and honestly?


Love me or let me go
Either accept my love or end the relationship


Don't you know I care
I really do care about you


Or don't you care to know?
Do my feelings not matter to you?




Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: ANTOINE DOMINO, DAVE BARTHOLOMEW

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

@funkycatglasses01

Beautiful band. Beautifu voice <3

@tacoandpie

amazing

@angelabryant8808

Gorgeous song. je t aime a la folie.

@FireypepperCP

12/1/2020





Duke - Don't You Know I Care (Or Don't You Care to Know)

@lorismonthoux1761

Nice voice, all right, but I definitely think that the crooner was not necessary.

@erforderlich5274

I tend to agree - mainly because he keeps missing the half step in the first bar. (Hodges plays it...) It's an extraordinary composition, especially the bridge.

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