About the song
In the realm of 1970s folk-rock, Cat Stevens’ song “Can’t Keep It In” shines as a vibrant testament to the exuberant spirit of its time. Released in 1972 on his album Catch Bull at Four, this song embodies Stevens’ signature style—melding introspective lyrics with uplifting melodies, creating a musical experience that resonates deeply with listeners of all ages.
Cat Stevens, whose journey from a London-born pop star to a revered folk musician is nothing short of remarkable, brings a unique energy to “Can’t Keep It In.” The track exudes a sense of joy and liberation, with its infectious rhythm and cheerful melody encouraging listeners to embrace their own sense of freedom and self-expression. It’s a celebration of the idea that happiness and enthusiasm are meant to be shared, not kept hidden away.
The song’s lyrics reflect a profound yet simple message: the exuberance and love we feel are too powerful to be contained. This notion is beautifully encapsulated in the song’s upbeat tempo and spirited guitar riffs, which invite listeners to let go of their reservations and fully immerse themselves in the moment. Stevens’ voice, warm and inviting, carries the listener along on a journey of emotional release and joy.
“Can’t Keep It In” is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a reminder of the importance of expressing our feelings and letting our true selves shine. It’s a call to revel in the happiness we find and to share it with those around us, reinforcing the universal truth that our greatest joys are often those we give away.
As you listen to this delightful piece, let the music lift your spirits and remind you of the boundless joy that comes from living openly and wholeheartedly. Cat Stevens’ “Can’t Keep It In” remains a timeless anthem of exuberance and connection, inviting us all to embrace and share the love and happiness within.
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Lyrics
Oh, I can’t keep it in, I can’t keep it in
I’ve gotta let it out
I’ve gotta show the world, world’s gotta see
See all the love, love that’s in me
I said, “why walk alone, why worry when it’s warm over here?”
You’ve got so much to say, say what you mean
Mean what you’re thinkin’, and think anything
Oh why, why must you waste your life away?
You’ve got to live for today, then let it go, oh
Lover, I want to spend this time with you
There’s nothing I wouldn’t do, if you let me know
And I can’t keep it in, I can’t hide it
And I can’t lock it away
I’m up for your love, love heats my blood
Blood spins my head, and my head falls in love, oh
Oh, I can’t keep it in, I can’t keep it in
I’ve gotta let it out
I’ve got to show the world, world’s gotta know
Know of the love, love that lies low
So why can’t you say, if you know then why can’t you say?
You’ve got too much deceit, and deceit kills the light
Light has to shine
I said, “shine light, shine light”
Love, that’s no way to live your life
You allow too much to go by, and that won’t do, no
Lover, I want to have you here by my side
Now don’t you run, don’t you hide
While I’m with you
And I can’t keep it in, I can’t keep it in
I’ve gotta let it out
I’ve gotta show the world, worlds’s gotta see
See all the love, love that’s in me
I said, “why walk alone, now, why worry when it’s warm over here”
You got so much to say, say what you mean
Mean what you’re thinkin’ and think anything, why not?
Now why, why, why not?