About the song
## Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood: A timeless plea for empathy
**The Animals**, a British rock band renowned for their raw energy and soulful interpretations, delivered a masterpiece in 1965 with their cover of “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood.” This song, originally penned by Gloria Shayne Baker and penned by her and her husband, Herb Newman, has resonated with audiences for decades, transcending its era to become a timeless anthem of misunderstanding and the human longing for connection.
The Animals’ rendition of “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” is a powerful and emotional exploration of the complexities of human relationships. The song’s lyrics delve into themes of miscommunication, prejudice, and the desire to be seen for who one truly is. The band’s passionate performance, characterized by Eric Burdon’s soulful vocals, Alan Price’s driving organ, and the rhythm section’s solid foundation, brings these themes to life with raw intensity.
The song’s opening lines, “Don’t let me be misunderstood/I’m just a soul whose intent is good,” immediately establish a sense of vulnerability and a plea for understanding. Burdon’s voice conveys a deep-seated longing for acceptance, as he expresses his frustration with being judged based on superficial appearances or preconceived notions. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who is misunderstood and misunderstood, struggling to reconcile their inner self with the perceptions of others.
The song’s bridge, “I’m just a simple man/I don’t ask for too much/Just to be loved/Just to be understood,” further emphasizes the protagonist’s desire for connection and empathy. The simplicity of the lyrics belies the song’s emotional depth, as Burdon conveys a universal longing for human connection that resonates with listeners of all ages.
The Animals’ cover of “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” is a testament to the band’s ability to transform a classic song into their own. Their passionate performance and soulful interpretation bring the lyrics to life, creating a timeless piece of music that continues to resonate with audiences today. The song’s themes of misunderstanding, prejudice, and the longing for connection remain as relevant as ever, reminding us of the importance of empathy and understanding in our relationships with others.
Video
Lyrics
Baby, can you understand me now?
Sometimes I get a little mad
Don’t you know, no one alive can always be an angel
When things go wrong, I seem to go bad
I’m just a soul whose intentions are good
Oh Lord, please don’t let me be misunderstood
Yeah, baby, sometimes I’m so carefree
With a joy that’s hard to hide
Yeah, and other times it seems that
All I ever have is worry
And then you’re bound to see my other side
Oh, I’m just a soul whose intentions are good
Oh Lord, please don’t let me be misunderstood
Well If I get edgy, I want you to know
I never mean to take it out on you
Life has its problems, I get more than my share
But there’s one thing that I would never do
Oh, I’m just a soul whose intentions are good
Oh Lord, please don’t let me be misunderstood
Well If I get edgy, I want you to know
I never mean to take it out on you
Life has its problems, I get more than my share
But there’s one thing that I would never do
‘Cause I love you
Oh
Oh, now don’t you know I’m human
I got my faults just like anyone
And sometimes I lie awake, alone, regretting
Some foolish thing, some sinful thing I’ve done
I’m just a soul whose intentions are good
Oh Lord, please don’t let me be misunderstood
I said, I’m just a soul whose intentions are good
Oh Lord, please don’t let me be misunderstood
Oh, I’m just a soul whose intentions are good
Oh Lord, please don’t let me be misunderstood