About The Song
Released in 1964 by The Animals, “Please Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” is a timeless R&B ballad that delves into themes of misunderstanding, loneliness, and the yearning for acceptance. Originally written by Otis Blackwell and Gene Vincent in 1955, the song’s lyrics express the frustration of an individual whose genuine intentions are often misinterpreted. The singer pleads for empathy and understanding, emphasizing their true nature and the challenges they face.
With Eric Burdon’s soulful vocals and the band’s passionate performance, “Please Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” became a major commercial success, reaching the top 10 on both the UK Singles Chart and the US Billboard Hot 100. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its relatable lyrics, memorable melody, and the band’s emotive delivery.
The song’s raw emotional intensity is further enhanced by the band’s instrumental arrangement. The driving rhythm section, featuring Alan Price on keyboards and John Steel on drums, provides a solid foundation for the song, while Hilton Valentine’s guitar work adds a touch of bluesy grit. Burdon’s vocals, filled with both pain and hope, convey the singer’s deep longing for connection and understanding.
The song’s message of misunderstanding and the search for acceptance remains relevant today, resonating with listeners who have experienced similar feelings of isolation or frustration. “Please Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, compassion, and open-mindedness in human relationships.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
Baby, do you understand me now
Sometimes I feel a little mad
But don’t you know that no one alive
Can always be an angel
When things go wrong I seem to be bad
But I’m just a soul whose intentions are good
Oh Lord, please don’t let me be misunderstood
Baby, sometimes I’m so carefree
With a joy that’s hard to hide
And sometimes it seems that all I have to do is worry
And then you’re bound to see my other side
I’m just a soul whose intentions are good
Oh Lord, please don’t let me be misunderstood
If I seem edgy I want you to know
That I never mean to take it out on you
Life has its problems and I get my share
And that’s one thing I never meant to do
Because I love you
Oh, Oh baby don’t you know I’m human
Have thoughts like any other one
Sometimes I find myself long regretting
Some foolish thing some little simple thing I’ve done
I’m just a soul whose intentions are good
Oh Lord, please don’t let me be misunderstood
Yes, I’m just a soul whose intentions are good
Oh Lord, please don’t let me be misunderstood
Yes, I’m just a soul whose intentions are good
Oh Lord, please don’t let me be misunderstood
Yes, I’m just a soul whose intentions are good
Oh Lord, please don’t let me be misunderstood …
music classic