Old Blue
Guy and Candie Carawan Lyrics
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I should have known that you would come along
I can't believe I ever doubted you
My old friend the blues
Another lonely night, a nameless town
If sleep don't take me first, you'll come around
I know I can always count on you
My old friend the blues
Lovers leave and friends will let you down
But you're the only sure thing that I've found
No matter what I do I'll never lose
My old friend the blues
Lovers leave and friends will let you down
But you're the only sure thing that I've found
No matter what I do I'll never lose
My old friend the blues
Just let me hide my weary heart in you
My old friend the blues
The song Old Blue, written by Guy and Candie Carawan, is a poetic ode to the comfort that the blues can provide in times of sadness and loneliness. The opening lines speak to the sense of hopelessness that can overcome anyone who is going through a tough time, but then the singer looks to their old friend, the blues, to provide solace. The lyrics suggest that the blues are a constant and reliable presence, able to offer comfort even when other friends and lovers have let us down. The chorus repeats this sentiment, emphasizing the unique power of the blues to soothe and heal:
"Lovers leave and friends will let you down
But you're the only sure thing that I've found
No matter what I do I'll never lose
My old friend the blues"
The final lines of the song are particularly poignant, as the singer expresses a desire to "hide [their] weary heart" in the blues, suggesting that this music is more than just a passing fancy or minor interest - it is something they truly need in order to cope with life's difficulties.
Overall, Old Blue is a powerful testament to the deep emotional connection that many people feel to the blues. This connection can be difficult to articulate, but the Carawans do a masterful job of capturing its essence in this haunting and deeply moving song.
Line by Line Meaning
Just when every ray of hope was gone
In a moment when it seemed like all hope was lost
I should have known that you would come along
Despite my doubts, I should have realized that you always appear when I need you
I can't believe I ever doubted you
I am now regretful for ever doubting the dependability of you
My old friend the blues
The emotional state of loneliness
Another lonely night, a nameless town
Another desolate, depressing night in a place that doesn't matter
If sleep don't take me first, you'll come around
If I don't fall asleep, I will anticipate your arrival
I know I can always count on you
I'm aware that you won’t disappoint no matter what
Lovers leave and friends will let you down
Romantic partners abandon and friends disappoint
But you're the only sure thing that I've found
However, you've been the only reliable thing I have
No matter what I do I'll never lose
I know you'll never leave me no matter what happens
Just let me hide my weary heart in you
Allow my tired, burdened heart to rest within you
My old friend the blues
The emotional state of loneliness
Lyrics © Warner/Chappell Music, Inc., Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: STEVE EARLE
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind