It Don't Mean a Thing
Joe Jackson feat. Iggy Pop Lyrics
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If it ain't possessin' something sweet
It ain't the melody, it ain't the music
It's something else that makes the tune complete
What good is melody, what good is music
If it ain't possessin' something sweet
It ain't the melody, it ain't the music
It don't mean a thing, if it ain't got that swing
It don't mean a thing, all you got to do is sing
It makes no diff'rence if it's sweet or hot
Just give that rhythm ev'rything you got
It don't mean a thing, if it ain't got that swing
It makes no diff'rence if it's sweet or hot
Just give that rhythm ev'rything you got
It don't mean a thing, if it ain't got that swing
It don't mean a thing, all you got to do is sing
Joe Jackson's version of "It Don't Mean A Thing" is a lively jazz tune with lyrics that explore the essence of music. The song questions the purpose of melody and music if it does not have that "something sweet" that makes it complete. Jackson's lyrics suggest that this extra special ingredient is the rhythm of the song, which must have a certain swing in order to truly have meaning.
The repetition of the phrase "It don't mean a thing, if it ain't got that swing" throughout the song emphasizes the importance of this rhythm. Jackson encourages us to give the rhythm everything we've got, emphasizing that the sweetness or hotness of the melody is secondary to the importance of having a strong, swinging beat.
Overall, "It Don't Mean A Thing" reminds us that music is more than just notes on a page. It is about the feeling it evokes and its ability to make us move and dance. The song captures the upbeat and lively spirit of jazz music, and encourages listeners to let go and enjoy the swing.
Line by Line Meaning
What good is melody, what good is music
What is the purpose of a melody or music?
If it ain't possessin' something sweet
Unless it has a certain pleasing quality
It ain't the melody, it ain't the music
This quality is not found in the melody or music
It's something else that makes the tune complete
Rather, another factor is essential for a complete song
It don't mean a thing, if it ain't got that swing
A song is meaningless without a particular rhythm
It don't mean a thing, all you got to do is sing
It's simple to fulfill this requirement, just sing the song
It makes no diff'rence if it's sweet or hot
Whether the song is slow and sweet or fast and intense is irrelevant
Just give that rhythm ev'rything you got
The key is to put all energy into the rhythm
It don't mean a thing, if it ain't got that swing
Reiteration of the main message: without this swing, the song has no value
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Duke Ellington, Irving Mills
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind