Don't look back
John Lee Hooker Feat. Van Morrison Lyrics
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You cannot live on in the past,
Don't look back.
And I've known so many people
That still try to live on in the past,
Don't look back, oh no.
I would never grow old and I'd never be poor,
But darlin', those days are gone, oh yeah.
Stop dreaming
And live on in the future,
But darlin', don't look back, oh no,
Don't look back, oh
no.
John Lee Hooker's song "Don't Look Back" is a melancholic blues song that encourages people to move forward and not dwell in their past. It is a reminder that living in the past won't change anything or make anything better. The opening lyrics "Don't look back to the days of yesteryear, You cannot live on in the past" suggest that one should stop living in the past and start living in the present, as one can't change his past. The second verse mentions how some people keep trying to relive their past and hold on to the memories, but it won't help them move forward.
In the third verse, Hooker portrays his longing for his younger years, saying that if he could call back those days, he would never grow old or be poor. However, he acknowledges that those days are gone and it's pointless to dwell on them. He advises people to stop dreaming and focus on the future instead of trying to relive the past.
"Don't Look Back" is a great example of John Lee Hooker's classic blues sound. The song features his signature guitar work, which, combined with his deep vocals, create a captivating feel. The song's lyrics are simple and straightforward, but they deliver a powerful message.
Line by Line Meaning
Don't look back to the days of yesteryear,
Do not dwell in the past or think about previous times,
You cannot live on in the past,
You can't continue to live in the past because life moves forward,
Don't look back.
Don't keep thinking about it and holding onto the past,
And I've known so many people
I have met many people,
That still try to live on in the past,
Who still attempt to exist in the past,
Don't look back, oh no.
Don't keep thinking about the past,
And if I could call back all those days of yesteryear,
If I could bring back all the past times,
I would never grow old and I'd never be poor,
I would remain youthful and wealthy,
But darlin', those days are gone, oh yeah.
But, my dear, those times don't exist anymore,
Stop dreaming
Cease dreaming,
And live on in the future,
And begin living in the present and future,
But darlin', don't look back, oh no,
However, my dear, avoid thinking about the past,
Don't look back, oh
Don't keep focusing on the past,
Lyrics © Peermusic Publishing, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: Pete White
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@karenstevenson4876
One of my favorites. It's such a positive song too because we need to live in the present and be happy as much as possible. GOD BLESS!
@democracymontano
1 of the most beautiful songs ever...thank you Mr. John Lee Hooker and Mr. Van Morrison~
@michaelgriffin8155
It is so good ❤❤
@oomba92
❤
@ernestaustin4281
Mr. John Lee Hooker and Mr. Van Morrison, It don't get any better than this.
@geoffdodsley4644
Have always loved this song, my dear little dog Jack passed away this week and I have to look to a future without him but how can I not look back and remember him as he was.
@billherbert4961
Hope you're getting on as best you can without Jack. Don't Look Back? Look back all you like. Songs are just songs, and they all need a hook. The best songs, like this one, hook like only John Lee and Van can. But it's just a great song. If you miss Jack enough to post, then there ain't no need for blues. Ya done right by 'ol Jack.
@alanmurr6562
I LOVE the end of the song at the 6:35 mark where John Lee says THANK YOU VAN MORRISON! And Van says THANK YOU JOHN!
@michaelgriffin8155
Can't get enough of it, the best 🇺🇲blues
@michaelduggan1890
You got two kinds of soul that equal one great song and sound . Thank you both for that one .