Janis Joplin (born 19 January 1943 in Port Arthur, Texas, United States, di… Read Full Bio ↴Janis Joplin (born 19 January 1943 in Port Arthur, Texas, United States, died 4 October 1970 in Los Angeles, California) was an American singer, songwriter, composer and painter. Originally the lead singer for the blues rock band Big Brother & The Holding Company, Joplin left the band in late 1968 for a solo career. She released two solo albums, I Got Dem Ol' Kozmic Blues Again Mama! (1969) and Pearl (1971), the latter released after her death. During her solo career, she was backed by the Kozmic Blues Band and later, the Full Tilt Boogie Band. Her version of the Kris Kristofferson song "Me and Bobby McGee" reached #1 in the United States on March 20, 1971.

Harry
Janis Joplin Lyrics

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Harry!

Harry ?
Harry, please come home.

Alright!

Overall Meaning

The song "Harry" by Janis Joplin is a sorrowful ballad which is addressed to the titular character, Harry. The lyrics indicate that the song is being sung to a person who is either absent or has left the singer's life. It is evident that the singer is pleading with Harry to come back home, implying a previous connection between the two. Janis Joplin's vocals are deeply emotive, and her signature rasp enhances the song's raw and powerful feeling. The lyrics reveal a sense of abandonment and despair on the singer's part, which is evident from the constant repetitions of Harry's name. It is unclear what led to Harry's absence, but it is evident that his absence has had a significant impact on the singer's life.

Line by Line Meaning

Harry!
Calling out to Harry with excitement and urgency

Harry ?
Questioning whether Harry is present or available

Harry, please come home.
Requesting Harry to return to a familiar and comfortable environment or situation

Alright!
Expressing agreement or satisfaction with a situation or decision

Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: Peter Albin, Sam Andrew, David Getz, James Gurley, Janis Joplin

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

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