About The Song
"I Don't Wanna Be a Soldier, Mama" is a compelling and politically charged track by John Lennon, featured on his 1971 album "Imagine." The song stands out for its anti-war sentiments and reflects Lennon's commitment to using his platform to address social and political issues.
Lyrically, the song expresses Lennon's disillusionment with war and his rejection of the military-industrial complex. The title and refrain, "I don't wanna be a soldier, mama, I don't wanna die," convey a clear and powerful anti-war message. Lennon's lyrics criticize the dehumanizing aspects of military service and the toll it takes on individuals. The sentiment is underscored by a sense of frustration and defiance, emphasizing his refusal to conform to societal expectations.
Musically, "I Don't Wanna Be a Soldier, Mama" is characterized by a bluesy rock sound, incorporating elements of psychedelic rock. The song features a hypnotic rhythm and a distinctive guitar riff, creating a sonic atmosphere that complements the intensity of the lyrics. The repetitive and trance-like quality of the music enhances the sense of protest and resistance conveyed in the song.
The track is known for its extended instrumental section, featuring avant-garde and experimental elements. This section contributes to the overall sonic texture of the song, emphasizing its anti-establishment and countercultural nature. Lennon's use of unconventional musical techniques aligns with his broader artistic exploration during this period.
Within the context of the "Imagine" album, "I Don't Wanna Be a Soldier, Mama" serves as a stark contrast to the more hopeful and utopian title track. While "Imagine" envisions a world of peace and unity, this track confronts the harsh realities of war and the resistance against being a pawn in military conflicts.
"I Don't Wanna Be a Soldier, Mama" reflects Lennon's activist spirit and his desire to contribute to the socio-political discourse of the time. It aligns with his commitment to peace and his personal evolution as an artist who used his platform to advocate for change. The song remains a powerful and relevant testament to Lennon's anti-war stance and his artistic expression as a means of social critique.
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Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
Well, I don't wanna be a soldier mama, I don't wanna die
Well, I don't wanna be a sailor mama, I don't wanna fly
Well, I don't wanna be a failure mama, I don't wanna cry
Well, I don't wanna be a soldier mama, I don't wanna die
Oh no, oh no, oh no, oh no
Well, I don't wanna be a rich man mama, I don't wanna cry
Well, I don't wanna be a poor man mama, I don't wanna fly
Well, I don't wanna be a lawyer mama, I don't wanna lie
Well, I don't wanna be a soldier mama, I don't wanna die
Oh no, oh no, oh no, oh no, hey
Well, I don't wanna be a soldier mama, I don't wanna die
Well, I don't wanna be a thief now mama, I don't wanna fly
Well, I don't wanna be a churchman mama, I don't wanna cry
Well, I don't wanna be a soldier mama, I don't wanna die
Oh no, oh no, oh no, oh no, oh no, oh no, oh no, oh no, oh no