West gained fame the world over during his long career as one of the most innovative and influential musicians in the history of rock music. He is most noted for his role as leader of the explosive hard rock trio, Mountain, which was named by VH-1 as one of the Top 100 Hard Rock Groups of all time. With Mountain, he climbed the heights of rock stardom on the strength of a unique, signature guitar sound and classic songs such as “Mississippi Queen”, “Never In My Life” and “Theme From An Imaginary Western”,and Nantucket Sleighride which are still staples of rock radio to this day. West earned the admiration of a long list of famous peers. During his career, he recorded or played with a litany of rock icons including Billy Joel, Van Halen, The Who, Mick Jagger and Jimi Hendrix, to name just a few. In fact, Eddie Van Halen, Michael Schenker and Richie Sambora have all cited West as an important influence on their own music.
West's bold, expressive and unique guitar style is really a mirror of his own personality. Spend a little time talking with this larger-than-life figure, and you’ll realize that he is as charismatic without a guitar in his hands as he is with one. Possessing a sharp sense of humor, he was at once gregarious and gruff while recounting stories from his legendary past. When discussing his music projects, he exuded an infectious enthusiasm and excitement. Such projects could take him outside his traditional roles of guitarist, singer and songwriter.
In 1986, he acted alongside Tom Hanks and Shelley Long in the hit comedy film, The Money Pit and has lent his distinctive voice to the popular animated series, Beast Wars Transformers which ran for three seasons on the WB network beginning in 1996 before going into syndication. He has also contributed the theme music to the new WB show, Mutant X.
West was a popular personality on the Howard Stern Radio Show and was Musical Director for the shock jock’s FOX series, as well as for the late comedian Sam Kinison. Most recently, he lent his production and songwriting skills to an album by Atlantic Records’ modern rock group, Clutch, and has just released his own instructional guitar DVD, Big Phat Ass Guitar.
Feeling Good
Leslie West Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Sun in the sky, you know how I feel
Breeze driftin' on by, you know how I feel
It′s a new dawn, it's a new day, it's a new life for me
Yeah, it′s a new dawn,
It′s a new day, it's a new life for me, ooooooooh
And I′m feelin' good
River runnin′ free, you know how I feel
Blossom on the tree, you know how I feel
It's a new dawn, it′s a new day, it's a new life for me
And I'm feelin′ good
Dragonfly out in the sun, you know what I mean, don′t you know
Butterflies all havin' fun, you know what I mean
Sleep in peace when day is done: that′s what I mean
And this old world is a new world and a bold world for me
Stars when you shine, you know how I feel
Scent of the pine, you know how I feel
Oh, freedom is mine, and I know how I feel
It's a new dawn, it′s a new day, it's a new life for me
And I′m feelin'... good
The lyrics of Leslie West's song "Feeling Good" are filled with optimism and a sense of joy. The song celebrates the beauty and wonder of the world, emphasizing the feeling of renewal and starting afresh. The first verse sets the tone, describing the freedom and happiness that one can experience when they embrace the beauty of nature. The image of birds flying high, the sun in the sky, and the gentle breeze drifting by all evoke a sense of tranquility and contentment. It's a new dawn, a new day, and a new life, symbolizing the opportunity for a fresh start and a positive outlook.
The second verse further illustrates this theme by highlighting the natural wonders of the world. The fish in the sea, the river running free, and the blossoms on the tree all represent the vivacity and abundance of life. The lyrics convey a sense of harmony between nature and the self, suggesting that by connecting with the natural world, one can experience a profound sense of well-being. The dragonfly and butterflies represent the freedom and joy that can be found in simple pleasures. The mention of sleeping in peace when the day is done implies a sense of serenity and inner calm.
The song concludes with the idea that when one appreciates the stars shining and the scent of pine, they embrace a feeling of liberation and understand the power of personal freedom. The repetition of "it's a new dawn, it's a new day, it's a new life for me" reinforces the message of embracing new beginnings and the possibility for positive change. Ultimately, "Feeling Good" is a song that encourages listeners to appreciate the beauty around them, find solace in nature, and cultivate a sense of inner peace and happiness.
Line by Line Meaning
Birds flying high, you know how I feel
I am uplifted and full of joy, just like the birds soaring freely in the sky.
Sun in the sky, you know how I feel
The radiant sun brings warmth and positivity to my life, filling me with a sense of happiness.
Breeze drifting on by, you know how I feel
The gentle breeze passing by reminds me of the peaceful and calming moments that bring serenity.
It's a new dawn, it's a new day, it's a new life for me
Each day presents a fresh start, a chance to embrace new experiences and opportunities. I am ready to embark on a new journey.
Yeah, it's a new dawn
Yes, a brand new day has arrived, signaling the beginning of another chapter in my life.
It's a new day, it's a new life for me, ooooooooh
Everything feels revitalized and rejuvenated. I am filled with excitement for the possibilities that lie ahead.
And I'm feelin' good
I am experiencing a profound sense of contentment and satisfaction.
Fish in the sea, you know how I feel
Just as fish swim freely in the vast ocean, I also feel a sense of freedom and fluidity in my life.
River running free, you know how I feel
The flowing river represents the unrestricted flow of life, where I can navigate my path with ease and grace.
Blossom on the tree, you know how I feel
The blooming flowers on the tree symbolize growth, renewal, and the beauty of nature, mirroring the positive changes and opportunities in my life.
Dragonfly out in the sun, you know what I mean, don't you know
The dragonfly soaring under the bright sun signifies the pure joy and pleasure that can be found in the simplest of moments. It's a feeling that's beyond words.
Butterflies all having fun, you know what I mean
Observing butterflies enjoying their carefree flight brings an understanding of the delight and carefreeness that life can offer.
Sleep in peace when day is done: that's what I mean
To peacefully rest at night after a fulfilling day is a true testament to a life well-lived and to find solace in the tranquil moments.
And this old world is a new world and a bold world for me
Even though the world may have been familiar to me, I now perceive it as a fresh and daring place, ready for me to explore and leave my mark.
Stars when you shine, you know how I feel
The shimmering stars in the sky evoke a sense of wonder and awe, reflecting the excitement and positivity that engulfs me.
Scent of the pine, you know how I feel
The soothing aroma of pine trees brings me a deep sense of peace and harmony, connecting me to the beauty of nature and grounding my soul.
Oh, freedom is mine, and I know how I feel
Experiencing freedom in its truest form brings immense joy and a profound understanding of my personal journey and emotions.
It's a new dawn, it's a new day, it's a new life for me
Each day holds the promise of a fresh start, a chance to embrace the unknown and shape a new chapter in my life.
And I'm feelin'... good
The overwhelming sense of positivity, happiness, and fulfillment resonates within me, enveloping me in a state of pure contentment.
Writer(s): Leslie Bricusse, Anthony Newley
Contributed by Grace W. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
@mannyruiz1954
The Tone Master and the master of pinch harmonics. A guitar god.
@wolverine3566
Leslie West - Feeling Good (Still Climbing) - hey, it's a killer piece!!! (and nobody have noticed)
@christian-albrechtgroddeck3320
Amazing guitar and brilliant voice, It's a pleasure to meet him some more times years before, he is a very kind man and a great nusician. Love and Respect to Leslie,,,,thanks for your friendship..
@mic982
Nice cover of the old, old classic. Well done -
@gerryorangefan6150
fantastic album.
@jbaum7571
great
@michaelmiletta7644
Dee Snider helping out on vocals.