About the song
“Somewhere” by Jimi Hendrix is an evocative track that reflects the innovative spirit of one of rock music’s most legendary figures. Released posthumously in 1973 on the album The Cry of Love, the song represents a significant part of Hendrix’s final recordings. The Cry of Love itself was compiled from sessions recorded in 1970, just before Hendrix’s untimely death, and serves as a testament to his remarkable artistry and versatility.
The album The Cry of Love was Hendrix’s first posthumous release and it compiled tracks from his final studio sessions. “Somewhere” stands out on this album for its introspective lyrics and soulful guitar work. The song reflects Hendrix’s evolving sound, blending blues and rock with his signature experimental flair. Despite being recorded during a turbulent time in Hendrix’s life, “Somewhere” embodies a sense of emotional depth and artistic maturity.
The essence of “Somewhere” lies in its exploration of themes such as longing and introspection. The lyrics, while somewhat cryptic, suggest a yearning for a place or state of being that is elusive yet deeply desired. Hendrix’s vocal delivery is poignant and reflective, capturing the emotional weight of the song. His guitar work, characterized by its expressive bends and fluid solos, further enhances the song’s evocative quality, providing a perfect complement to the lyrical content.
“Somewhere” and the album The Cry of Love had a notable impact on the music world, both in the context of Hendrix’s legacy and the broader rock genre. The release of The Cry of Love brought new attention to Hendrix’s final works and offered fans a glimpse into his artistic evolution during his final years. The song’s innovative blend of blues, rock, and psychedelic influences showcases Hendrix’s continued experimentation and evolution as an artist. It also highlights his ability to convey profound emotion through his music, even in his last recordings.
Musically, “Somewhere” features a rich, layered arrangement that combines Hendrix’s distinctive guitar techniques with a soulful melody. The song’s production, spearheaded by Eddie Kramer, who had worked closely with Hendrix throughout his career, captures the raw energy and depth of Hendrix’s performance. This track, along with the rest of the album, reinforces Hendrix’s status as a trailblazer in rock music, continuing to inspire musicians and listeners alike.
In summary, “Somewhere” by Jimi Hendrix, released in 1973 on the album The Cry of Love, is a powerful reflection of Hendrix’s artistic vision during his final years. The song’s exploration of longing and introspection, combined with Hendrix’s masterful guitar work and emotional vocal delivery, showcases his enduring influence and the profound impact of his music. The track remains a significant part of Hendrix’s legacy, illustrating his ability to push the boundaries of rock and continue to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level.
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Lyrics
Oh uhI see fingers, hands and shades of facesReachin’ up and not quite touchin’ the promised landI hear pleas and prayers and a desperate whisper sayin’Oh, Lord, please give us a helpin’ handYeah yeahWay down in the backgroundI can see frustrated souls of cities burnin’And all across the water, babyI see weapons barkin’ out the sting of deathAnd up in the clouds I can imagine UFOs jumpin’ themselvesLaughin’ they sayin’Those people so uptight, they sure know how to make a messBack in the saloon my tears mix and mildew with my drinkI can’t really tell my feet from the sawdust on the floorBut as far as I know, they may even tryTo wrap me up in cellophane and try and sell meBrother sell me, and don’t worry about lookin’ at the scoreYeah yeah yeah yeah yeah