I'm Gone
Joe Williams & Count Basie Lyrics
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Oh, honey, though our friendship ceases from now on
And, listen, if you can't say anything real nice
It's better not to talk at all is my advice
We're parting--you go your way, I'll go mine
It's best that we do
Here's a kiss; I hope that this brings lots of luck to you
Remember, please, don't talk about me when I'm gone
We're parting--you go your way, I'll go mine
It's best that we do
Here's a kiss; I hope that this brings lots of luck to you
Makes no difference how I carry on
Remember, please, don't talk about me
Please, don't talk about me
Please, don't talk about me when I'm gone
The lyrics of Joe Williams's song "Please Don't Talk About Me When I'm Gone" express the pain of parting ways, but also the importance of leaving things on good terms. The singer requests that his former friend, lover or companion refrains from sharing any negative thoughts about him. The artist acknowledges that their friendship may have ceased but advises that it is better to not say anything at all unless it is nice. The repetition of "Please, don't talk about me when I'm gone" is a reminder of the hurt that can be caused by spreading negativity and also a plea for respect and kindness.
As the lyrics continue, the singer bids farewell and wishes his ex-friend or lover good luck for the future through a kiss. His words suggest that he has come to accept their parting, and though they may lead entirely different lives, he hopes that the other person finds happiness wherever they go. Ultimately, the message of the song is about the importance of leaving things in a respectful and positive manner, even in difficult times.
Line by Line Meaning
Please, don't talk about me when I'm gone
I would prefer that you not speak of me once I depart
Oh, honey, though our friendship ceases from now on
Although we are ending our relationship, do not speak negatively of me
And, listen, if you can't say anything real nice
If you cannot speak kindly about me, then do not speak about me at all
It's better not to talk at all is my advice
I suggest that it is best for you not to speak about me at all
We're parting--you go your way, I'll go mine
We are separating and moving forward in different directions
It's best that we do
It is the best decision for both of us
Here's a kiss; I hope that this brings lots of luck to you
I give you a farewell kiss and wish you the best of luck
Oh, makes no difference how I carry on
It does not matter how I choose to proceed
Remember, please, don't talk about me when I'm gone
Please recall not to speak ill of me once I depart
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: BEE PALMER, SIDNEY CLARE, SAM STEPT
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@johnanthony9313
Saw these amazing gentlemen in London around 1962...there's never been a better big band...and Joe Williams was a class act. The very best evening of great music
@jimrandolph3361
I don't think that you should try to call this anything more than really great music.
@SuperJAG15
My jazz band playing this song freaking love it♡♡♡
@owgames101
same
@potatoking8770
Same
@sethwexler6910
Man that swings and Joe was so good. I was lucky to see the Basie band three times as a young man. My father made sure that we saw good music.
@jean-philippelarpin8672
Same for me! I saw Basie's band a few times, and even with Joe Williams! All that thanks to my dad who opened my ears to jazz music. And here I am, 50+ years later, still hooked...
@ler5299
The whole album is great
@doreenscheffler1150
I came here to listen and remember my father! Love and miss you so much. Until we’re reunited 😘😘😘
@blackwatchaudio5630
A absolutely badass.