Tell It Like It Is
Neville Brothers (The Nevilles Lyrics
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Go and find yourself a toy
Baby, my time is too expensive
And I'm not a little boy
If you are serious
Don't play with my heart, it makes me furious
But if want me to love you
Tell it like it is
Don't be ashamed to let your conscience be your guide
But I-I-I-I-I know deep down inside of me
I believe you love me, forget your foolish pride
Life is too short to have sorrow
You may be here today and gone tomorrow
You might as well get what you want
So go on and live, baby, go on and live
Tell it like it is
I'm nothing to play with, go and find yourself a toy
But I-I-I-I-I
Tell it like it is
My time is too expensive
And I'm not your little boy, mmm tell it like it is
The Neville Brothers' song "Tell It Like It Is" is a classic R&B track that speaks of the complexity of love and relationships. The first stanza sets the tone for the song, as the singer tells their lover that they shouldn't play games with them. They don't have time to be treated like a toy, because they are an adult who values their time and emotions. The next lines show the frustration that comes with having someone play with your heart, making it clear that the singer has had enough of this type of behavior.
In the bridge, the singer addresses their lover, letting them know that they are willing to love them if they are serious, but they can't keep playing games. This is emphasized when they say "tell it like it is," urging their lover to be honest with them about their feelings. The last stanza emphasizes the idea that life is short and there's no time to waste. If the lover wants something, they should go for it instead of playing games with the singer.
Overall, the song is a powerful reminder that honesty and communication are essential in any relationship. It's better to be upfront with your feelings than to play games that can hurt those you care for.
Line by Line Meaning
If you want something to play with
If you're looking for someone to just fool around with
Go and find yourself a toy
Look for someone who is just looking for fun, not a serious relationship
Baby, my time is too expensive
I value my time and don't want to waste it on someone who doesn't take things seriously
And I'm not a little boy
I'm not immature and won't let someone play games with me
If you are serious
If you're genuinely interested in a real relationship
Don't play with my heart, it makes me furious
Don't lead me on or play games with my emotions, it makes me angry
But if want me to love you
If you want me to genuinely care about you
Then, baby, I will, girl, you know I will
I'm willing to love and be committed to you
Tell it like it is
Be honest and truthful about your feelings
Don't be ashamed to let your conscience be your guide
Don't feel embarrassed to follow your instincts and do what feels right
But I-I-I-I-I know deep down inside of me
I have a feeling in my heart and soul
I believe you love me, forget your foolish pride
I think you really care about me, so don't let your ego or insecurities hold you back from expressing it
Life is too short to have sorrow
Life is brief, so don't waste time being sad or unhappy
You may be here today and gone tomorrow
You never know how long someone will be in your life
You might as well get what you want
You might as well pursue what you desire
So go on and live, baby, go on and live
Don't be afraid to enjoy life and pursue your dreams
I'm nothing to play with, go and find yourself a toy
I'm not someone to just have fun with, find someone else for that
But I-I-I-I-I
However,
My time is too expensive
I'm not willing to waste my valuable time
And I'm not your little boy, mmm tell it like it is
I'm not someone you can manipulate or treat like a child, so be truthful with me
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, BMG Rights Management, M. JONES PUBLISHING CO.
Written by: George Davis, Lee Diamond
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Rozenax Sax
This was Aarons first recording in 1966 and put him on the map because it was a hit. I've loved him and his brothers ever since. This is greatness beyond measure.
hattie hawkins
Mercy mercy, that's my man.💋♥️😊
isidro enriquez
How old r u g
Eileen Ducote
For a long time Art was the man. Once Aaron hit the radio, his voice took over...
Kate Bates
I remember dancing to this, it's still so sexy 😍and I love it
flomurdock
No, Aaron's 1960 song was Over You. This one didn't come along t il the mid 60s.
TL
This song came up on my Spotify playlist and I was mesmerized. What a voice! I actually think that The Weeknd could cover this one.
Hana Rosé OFFICIAL
Same thing happened to me today!!
Donna Strachan
I saw Arthell Neville and that song just popped in my memory. Remembering Aaron's unique voice I googled the song and I'm here listening. "Take me back". Loved the song when I was a young girl and I still do!
Citizen Diez
Abel could lace this track.