Ain't That Right
Willie Bobo & His Orchestra Lyrics
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Tell me to save my tears
Well I'm so mad about him
I can't live without him
Never treats me sweet and gentle
The way he should
I've got it bad
My poor heart is so sentimental
Not made of wood
I've got it so bad
And that ain't good
But when the fish are jumpin'
And Friday rolls around
My man an' I, we gin some
We pray some, and sin some
He don't love me like I love him
The way he should
I've got it bad
And that ain't good
Yes I've got it bad
And that ain't good
In the song "Ain't That Right" by Willie Bobo & His Orchestra, the singer expresses a sense of helplessness and longing for a partner who does not treat them as they deserve. The lyrics begin with a reflection on the advice of well-meaning individuals who suggest saving tears, indicating a sense of sadness and frustration with the situation at hand. Despite these wise words, the singer conveys a deep emotional attachment to their partner, expressing that they are so consumed by their love for them that they cannot imagine life without them. This establishes a theme of emotional turmoil and dependency in the relationship.
The next verse delves into the contrasting behaviors of the partner, highlighting how they do not treat the singer with the kindness and care they desire. The singer acknowledges that they are in a situation where they have strong feelings for someone who does not reciprocate in the same way. This creates a sense of unbalance and dissatisfaction in the relationship, reinforcing the idea that the singer is in a state of longing and distress. The mention of having it "so bad" emphasizes the intensity of their emotions and the impact it has on their well-being.
The following verse delves deeper into the singer's emotional state, emphasizing their sentimental nature and vulnerability. The comparison of their heart to not being made of wood conveys a sense of raw, unguarded emotions that are easily affected by the actions and treatment of their partner. The repetition of having it "so bad" reinforces the idea of suffering and unrequited love, painting a picture of a heart that is deeply wounded and yearning for a love that is not fully returned. This sentiment adds layers of complexity to the singer's emotional experience.
The final lines of the song bring a sense of resignation and acceptance to the situation. Despite acknowledging that their partner does not love them in the way they desire and deserve, the singer seems to have come to terms with this reality. The repeated refrain of having it "bad" and "not good" serves as a poignant conclusion to the song, encapsulating the singer's enduring love and pain in a bittersweet realization. Overall, the lyrics of "Ain't That Right" depict a poignant and introspective exploration of unrequited love, emotional turmoil, and the complexities of relationships.
Line by Line Meaning
Though folks with good intentions Tell me to save my tears
Even though well-meaning people advise me to stop crying
Well I'm so mad about him I can't live without him
I am deeply in love with him and cannot imagine my life without him
Never treats me sweet and gentle The way he should
He does not treat me with the kindness and tenderness that he should
I've got it bad And that ain't good
I am deeply affected by my feelings for him, which is not a good thing
My poor heart is so sentimental Not made of wood
My heart is emotional and sensitive, not unfeeling
But when the fish are jumpin' And Friday rolls around
In moments of excitement and anticipation
My man an' I, we gin some We pray some, and sin some
He and I indulge in relaxation, prayer, and mistakes together
He don't love me like I love him The way he should
He does not return my love in the way that he should
I've got it bad And that ain't good
My strong emotions are affecting me in a negative way
Yes I've got it bad And that ain't good
Yes, my feelings for him are overwhelming and not in a positive light
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Duke Ellington, Paul Francis Webster
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind