About The Song
John Lennon's "Aisumasen (I'm Sorry)" is a poignant track from his 1973 album "Mind Games." The song reflects Lennon's introspective and confessional songwriting style during a period when he was navigating personal and emotional challenges. Released as a single in Japan, "Aisumasen (I'm Sorry)" showcases Lennon's ability to translate complex emotions into a melodic and soulful musical composition.
The title "Aisumasen" is Japanese for "I'm sorry," and the lyrics of the song delve into themes of remorse, regret, and the complexities of human relationships. Lennon, known for his candid and autobiographical approach to songwriting, bares his soul in this composition. The verses express a sense of personal responsibility and acknowledgment of mistakes, creating a vulnerable and introspective atmosphere.
Musically, "Aisumasen (I'm Sorry)" features a gentle and melodic arrangement, with acoustic guitar and piano playing prominent roles. The subdued instrumentation complements the introspective nature of the lyrics, allowing Lennon's emotive vocals to take center stage. The production style is reflective of the early 1970s singer-songwriter genre, with a focus on the storytelling aspect of the song.
Lennon's vocals on "Aisumasen (I'm Sorry)" are delivered with a mix of sincerity and soulfulness. His ability to convey a range of emotions through his singing is evident, capturing the essence of the internal conflict expressed in the lyrics. The chorus, where Lennon repeatedly sings the Japanese phrase "Aisumasen," becomes a poignant and memorable refrain, adding to the emotional weight of the song.
In the broader context of Lennon's solo career, "Aisumasen (I'm Sorry)" is part of the "Mind Games" album, which marked a period of artistic exploration and personal reflection for the artist. The album as a whole showcases a variety of musical styles and lyrical themes, with "Aisumasen" standing out as a sincere and introspective ballad. Lennon's ability to merge personal storytelling with musical craftsmanship is evident in this track, making it a notable addition to his solo discography.
"Aisumasen (I'm Sorry)" by John Lennon is a heartfelt and introspective song that reveals the artist's vulnerability and emotional depth. The combination of sincere lyrics, soulful vocals, and melodic instrumentation creates a moving and memorable piece of music. The track is a testament to Lennon's ability to use his art as a means of self-expression and introspection, inviting listeners into the intimate landscape of his emotions and experiences.
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Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
When I'm down really yin
And I don't know what I'm doing
Aisumasen Yoko
All I had to do was call your name
And when I hurt you and cause you pain
Darling I promise I won't do it again
Aisumasen Yoko
It's hard enough I know just to feel your own pain
All that I know is just what you tell me
All that I know is just what you show me
When I'm down real sanpaku
And I don't know what to do
Aisumasen Yoko san
All I had to do was call your name
Yes, all I had to do was call your name