About the song
Let’s delve into the poetic world of Gilbert O’Sullivan’s early masterpiece, “Nothing Rhymed”. Released in 1970 as a single from his debut album “Himself”, this song marked the beginning of O’Sullivan’s career as a distinctive singer-songwriter in the British music scene.
Gilbert O’Sullivan, born Raymond Edward O’Sullivan, emerged with a style that blended elements of pop, folk, and intricate piano arrangements, setting him apart from his contemporaries. “Nothing Rhymed” showcases O’Sullivan’s keen lyrical craftsmanship and his ability to meld introspective themes with melodic charm.
The song itself is a reflection on the complexities of life and relationships, woven into poignant verses that explore themes of disillusionment and longing for deeper connection. O’Sullivan’s introspective lyrics and emotive vocal delivery resonated strongly with audiences, propelling “Nothing Rhymed” to significant chart success.
Upon its release, “Nothing Rhymed” climbed to number 8 on the UK Singles Chart, marking O’Sullivan’s breakthrough into the mainstream music scene. Its success was bolstered by O’Sullivan’s distinct voice and the song’s intricate musical arrangement, which highlighted his ability to convey both vulnerability and resilience through his music.
Beyond its chart performance, “Nothing Rhymed” became a signature song for O’Sullivan, showcasing his ability to craft narrative-driven compositions that resonate with universal emotions. The song’s enduring popularity has solidified its place as a classic in O’Sullivan’s repertoire, cherished for its lyrical depth and timeless appeal.
Gilbert O’Sullivan’s career continued to flourish after “Nothing Rhymed”, with subsequent albums and singles further establishing him as a prominent figure in the singer-songwriter genre. His distinctive blend of storytelling and musicality has earned him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim throughout his career.
In conclusion, “Nothing Rhymed” remains a testament to Gilbert O’Sullivan’s early brilliance as a songwriter, capturing the essence of human experience with sincerity and poetic grace. Its legacy continues to resonate with listeners, affirming O’Sullivan’s enduring influence on the world of music and his ability to transcend generational boundaries with his heartfelt compositions.
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Lyrics
If I give up the seat I’ve been saving
To some elderly lady or man
Am I being a good boy?
Am I your pride and joy?
Mother please if you think say I am
And if while in the course of my duty
I perform an unfortunate take
Would you punish me so
Unbelievably so
Never again will I make that mistake
This feeling inside me could never deny me
The right to be wrong if I choose
And this pleasure I get
From say winning a bet
Is to lose
When I’m drinking my Bonaparte Shandy
Eating more than enough apple pies
Will I glance at my screen
And see real human beings
Starve to death right in front of my eyes
Nothing old, nothing new, nothing ventured
Nothing gained, nothing still-born or lost
Nothing further than proof, nothing wilder than youth
Nothing older than time, nothing sweeter than wine
Nothing physically recklessly, hopelessly blind
Nothing I couldn’t say
Nothing why ‘cos today
Nothing rhymed
This feeling inside me could never deny me
The right to be wrong if I choose
And this pleasure I get
From say winning a bet
Is to lose
Nothing good, nothing bad, nothing ventured
Nothing gained, nothing still-born or lost
Nothing further than proof, nothing wilder than youth
Nothing older than time, nothing sweeter than wine
Nothing physically recklessly, hopelessly blind
Nothing I couldn’t say
Nothing why ‘cos today
Nothing rhymed