Born in Houston, Texas, Nash began as a pop singer in the 1950s. He became famous for singing the theme song for The Mighty Hercules cartoon in the early 1960s (which song he also wrote). His biggest hits were the early reggae tunes Hold Me Tight, I Can See Clearly Now, and Stir It Up, written by Bob Marley prior to Marley's international success.
Nash was last active as a composer in the Swedish romance Vill så gärna tro (1971) in which he portrayed Robert. For many years he seemed to have dropped out of sight; however, in May 2006 he was singing again at SugarHill Recording Studio in his native Houston.
I Can See Clearly
Johnny Nash Lyrics
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I can see all obstacles in my way
Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind
It's gonna be a bright (bright)
Bright (bright) sunshiny day
It's gonna be a bright (bright)
Bright (bright) sunshiny day
All of the bad feelings have disappeared
Here is that rainbow I've been praying for
It's gonna be a bright (bright)
Bright (bright) sunshiny day
Look all around, there's nothing but blue skies
Look straight ahead, nothing but blue skies
I can see clearly now the rain is gone
I can see all obstacles in my way
Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind
It's gonna be a bright (bright)
Bright (bright) sunshiny day
It's gonna be a bright (bright)
Bright (bright) sunshiny day
Gonna be a bright (bright)
Bright (bright) sunshiny day
Oh, what a bright (bright)
Bright (bright) sunshiny day
Gonna be a bright (bright)
Bright (bright) sunshiny day
The lyrics of Johnny Nash’s “I Can See Clearly Now” are about positivity, perseverance, and personal growth. The song begins with the singer being able to see clearly now that the rain is gone. This line can be interpreted both literally and metaphorically. Literally, they can see clearly because the rain has stopped; metaphorically, they can see clearly because they have pushed through a hard time and are now able to see all the obstacles that were previously blocking their view. The next line, “I can see all obstacles in my way,” showcases the singer’s newfound clarity and ability to see what they need to overcome.
The chorus comes next, emphasizing the newfound optimism the singer has. The singer knows that it’s going to be a bright, sunshiny day because they have come out on the other side of their struggles. They’ve been able to let go of their pain and negative feelings and are now seeing a rainbow, a symbol of hope and promise. The line “Look all around, there’s nothing but blue skies” further emphasizes this positivity, indicating that the singer has a clear view of their future and it’s looking bright.
The final verse repeats the first verse, ending with the chorus reinforcing the message that it’s going to be a bright, sunshiny day. Overall, the lyrics are a message of perseverance and hope, reminding listeners that even when times are tough, they can push through and find the sunshine on the other side.
Line by Line Meaning
I can see clearly now the rain is gone
I now have a clear view of my life and future, as the negative influences and difficulties have been removed
I can see all obstacles in my way
I am aware of the challenges that lie ahead of me and can face them head-on
Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind
The negative thoughts and emotions that were clouding my judgment and sight have disappeared
It's gonna be a bright (bright) Bright (bright) sunshiny day
I am confident that my future will be happy, hopeful, and full of opportunities
I think I can make it now the pain is gone
With the absence of emotional and physical pain, I believe in myself and my ability to achieve my goals
All of the bad feelings have disappeared
The negative emotions that were weighing me down are no longer present
Here is that rainbow I've been praying for
My hopes and prayers for a better future have been answered
Look all around, there's nothing but blue skies
I am surrounded by positivity and optimism, with no signs of negativity
Look straight ahead, nothing but blue skies
My future is bright and full of promise, with nothing blocking my path to success
Gonna be a bright (bright) Bright (bright) sunshiny day
My future is certain to be cheerful and sunny
Oh, what a bright (bright) Bright (bright) sunshiny day
I am thrilled with the prospects of the joyful and happy days to come
Gonna be a bright (bright) Bright (bright) sunshiny day
My future is certain to be cheerful and sunny
Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Johnny Nash
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind