James Taylor – Something in the Way She Moves

About the song

James Taylor has long been a treasured figure in the tapestry of American folk and soft rock music. Among his many evocative compositions, “Something in the Way She Moves” stands out as a poignant testament to his lyrical prowess and gentle musicality. Released in 1968 on his self-titled debut album under Apple Records, this song not only introduced Taylor’s distinctive voice and guitar style to the world but also etched his name among the promising artists of that era.

The melody of “Something in the Way She Moves” is as mesmerizing as the emotions it conveys. It’s a tender, introspective piece that encapsulates the essence of gentle love and admiration. The simplicity of Taylor’s acoustic guitar work, combined with his soothing vocals, creates an intimate atmosphere that draws the listener in, making them feel as if they are part of the narrative. The song’s structure is uncomplicated, yet it is this very simplicity that allows Taylor’s heartfelt lyrics to shine through.

At its core, the song is a celebration of love and admiration for a significant other. Taylor’s lyrics are poetically subtleyet incredibly expressive. Phrases like “Something in the way she moves, or looks my way, or calls my name” capture the ineffable quality of love and attraction, the kind that can’t easily be defined but is deeply felt. This lyrical nuance is what makes the song timeless, as it resonates with listeners who have experienced the delicate beauty of falling in love.

James Taylor‘s performance is understated but powerful. His voice carries a warmth and sincerity that makes each word believable, and his guitar accompaniment provides a perfect backdrop that enhances the lyrical content without overshadowing it. This balance of elements showcases Taylor’s skill as both a songwriter and a performer.

Over the years, “Something in the Way She Moves” has been covered by numerous artists, yet Taylor’s original version remains unparalleled. It’s a song that has not only stood the test of time but has also grown in its impact, continuing to touch new generations of listeners. This track is a cornerstone of Taylor’s illustrious career and a perfect example of his ability to craft songs that are both personally intimate and universally relatable.

For those who may not be familiar with James Taylor or his work, “Something in the Way She Moves” is an ideal starting point. It encapsulates his style and the essence of his music—profoundly human, elegantly simple, and endlessly touching. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, this song invites you to pause, reflect, and feel the quiet power of Taylor’s artistry.

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Lyrics

There’s something in the way she moves
Or looks my way, or calls my name
That seems to leave this troubled world behind
If I’m feeling down and blue
Or troubled by some foolish game
She always seems to make me change my mind

And I feel fine anytime she’s around me now
She’s around me now
Almost all the time
And if I’m well you can tell she’s been with me now
She’s been with me now quite a long, long time
And I feel fine

Every now and then the things I lean on lose their meaning
And I find myself careening
In places where I should not let me go
She has the power to go where no one else can find me
Yes and silently remind me
The happiness and the good times that I know, but as I had got to know them

It isn’t what she’s got to say
But how she thinks and where she’s been
To me, the words are nice, the way they sound
I like to hear them best that way
It doesn’t much matter what they mean
What she says them mostly just to calm me down

And I feel fine anytime she’s around me now
She’s around me now
Almost all the time
If I’m well you can tell she’s been with me now
She’s been with me now quite a long, long time
Yes and I feel fine