Originated from a surf rock group called the Crossfires, the Turtles delved into many genres such as breezy pop, psychedelic music, and folk rock. A precursor to the bubblegum pop of the late 60s and early 70s as well as a foil to the more self-consciously hip and "serious" acts of the era, the Turtles produced at least a dozen memorable, radio-friendly chart singles. Yet they remain best known for 1967's "Happy Together", which was their only chart-topping single.
The Turtles wound down their career in 1970.
The two prominent singers - Howard Kaylan ("Eddie") and Mark Volman ("Flo" a.k.a. "Phlorescent Leech") - collaborated with Frank Zappa for a short but very intensive period of one and a half years (between 1970-72) and were the cornerstone of what was known to be the Zappa "Vaudeville" band; two of the most famous achievements of that period being the albums Fillmore East – June 1971 and 200 Motels, the soundtrack of the film by the same name.
John & Julie
The Turtles Lyrics
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John and Julie
You should know me
If you know me
I'm with envy
John and Julie
Far away, years away
Making love again
I'm with them every day
See them play in their play
They know who I am
You should know me
John and Julie
John and Julie sailed away
Far away, years away
Making love again
I'm with them every day
See them play in their play
They know who I am
I am indeed
John and Julie
You should know me
If you know me
I'm with envy
John and Julie
In the song "John & Julie" by The Turtles, the repetition of the names John and Julie suggest a deep sense of familiarity and connection. The singer identifies themselves as John and Julie, possibly implying a sense of longing to be part of their world or a desire to be noticed by them. The use of the phrase "You should know me" could signify a plea for recognition and understanding from these elusive figures of John and Julie.
The lyrics evoke a sense of longing and envy as the singer mentions being with John and Julie in spirit, perhaps observing their carefree and idyllic existence from a distance. The repeated refrain of "I'm with them every day" highlights the intensity of the singer's connection to John and Julie, hinting at a deep emotional and possibly romantic attachment to this imagined couple.
The imagery of John and Julie sailing away far into the distance conveys a sense of escapism and freedom, symbolizing a departure from the constraints of reality. The phrase "Making love again" could suggest a cycle of passion and rejuvenation, emphasizing the timeless and eternal quality of their connection. The singer seems to find solace in the idea of John and Julie finding joy and fulfillment in each other, even if they are only imaginary constructs in the singer's mind.
Overall, the lyrics of "John & Julie" by The Turtles convey a bittersweet blend of yearning, admiration, and a profound sense of connection to the characters of John and Julie. The repetition of certain phrases and the dreamlike quality of the imagery suggest a deep emotional resonance within the singer, as they navigate the complexities of longing for a closeness that may only exist in the realm of imagination.
Line by Line Meaning
I am indeed
I truly exist
John and Julie
Symbolic representation of a happy couple
You should know me
You should recognize my presence
If you know me
If you are familiar with me
I'm with envy
I feel jealous
John and Julie sailed away
The couple embarked on a journey
Far away, years away
Distant in space and time
Making love again
Rekindling their feelings for each other
I'm with them every day
I am there alongside them constantly
See them play in their play
Observing their happiness together
They know who I am
They are aware of my existence
Writer(s): Kaylan, Volman, Nichol, Seiter, Pous
Contributed by Stella C. Suggest a correction in the comments below.