Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood

The Animals

About Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood

"Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood" is a song written by Bennie Benjamin, Horace Ott and Sol Marcus for the singer and pianist Nina Simone, who first recorded it in 1964. "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood" has been covered by many artists, most notably by The Animals, whose blues rock version of the song became a transatlantic hit in 1965. A 1977 four-on-the-floor disco rearrangement by disco group Santa Esmeralda was also a hit.


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Baby, do you understand me now?
Sometimes I feel a little mad
But don't you know that no one alive can always be an angel
When things go wrong I feel real bad.

I'm just a soul whose intentions are good
Oh Lord, please don't let me be misunderstood

Baby, sometimes I'm so carefree
With a joy that's hard to hide
And sometimes it seems that, all I have to do is worry
And then you're bound to see my other side

I'm just a soul whose intentions are good
Oh Lord, please don't let me be misunderstood

If I seem edgy, I want you to know,
That I never mean to take it out on you
Life has its problems, and I get my share,
And that's one thing I never mean to do

Cause I love you,
Oh,

Oh, oh, oh, baby - don't you know I'm human
I have thoughts like any other one
Sometimes I find myself, Lord, regretting
Some foolish thing, some little simple thing I've done

I'm just a soul whose intentions are good
Oh Lord, please don't let me be misunderstood
Yes, I'm just a soul whose intentions are good
Oh Lord, please don't let me be misunderstood
Yes, I'm just a soul whose intentions are good
Oh Lord, please don't let me be misunderstood

Yes, I'm just a soul whose intentions are good

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The Animals

The Animals were an English band of the 1960s, formed in Newcastle upon Tyne during the early part of the decade. The band relocated to London on finding fame in 1964. The Animals were known for their gritty, bluesy sound and deep-voiced frontman Eric Burdon, as exemplified by their signature song and transatlantic No.1 hit single, "The House of the Rising Sun", as well as by hits such as "We Gotta Get out of This Place", "It's My Life", and "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood". The band balanced tough, rock-edged pop singles against rhythm and blues-oriented album material. They were known in the US as part of the British Invasion. more »

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Written by: Bennie Benjamin, Gloria Caldwell, Sol Marcus

Lyrics © MUSIC SALES CORPORATION, CHRIS-N-JEN MUSIC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Song Origin
"Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood" was written by Bennie Benjamin, Gloria Caldwell, and Sol Marcus specifically for the iconic African-American singer, Nina Simone in 1964.
Nina Simone Version
Simone's original version was arranged in a slow, moody style that highlighted her rich, deep voice and serious message. It was included as the last track of her album "Broadway-Blues-Ballads".
Simone's Song Context
Nina Simone, known for her involvement in civil rights activism, has claimed the song to be a protest anthem. Its meaning can be interpreted as a plea for understanding and tolerance.
The Animals Version
A year after Simone's version, the British rock band The Animals covered the song. Their faster, rock-style version became a transatlantic hit in 1965, reaching the top three in the UK Singles Chart and top 15 in the United States Billboard Hot 100.
Animals' Influence
The Animals' rendition of "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood" greatly influenced many rock artists and inspired a number of covers. Fascinatingly, Bob Dylan, a legend in his own right, has frequently performed the song in his concerts.
Santa Esmeralda Version
In 1977, "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood" took on yet another persona when it was covered by the disco group Santa Esmeralda. The group's version combined elements of disco, funk, and Latin music, turning it into a dance favorite.
Santa Esmeralda's Hit
Santa Esmeralda's version is among the most famous renditions of the song globally, hitting No. 1 on the U.S. Disco chart, No. 15 on Billboard Hot 100, and No. 1 in several countries. This version is over 10 minutes long.
Cinema Popularity
The Santa Esmeralda version has been specifically chosen for several movie soundtracks due to its intense, dramatic vibe, including films like "Kill Bill: Volume 1" and "Blow".
Song Versatility
The track "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood" has been rearranged in many styles over the years, proving its versatility and timeless appeal. It has been performed in jazz, soul, rock, and disco genres.
Cover Abundance
Apart from the three major interpretations, the song has been covered by many other notable artists, including Elvis Costello, Joe Cocker, and Cyndi Lauper, further establishing its enduring appeal in the industry.

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    "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 31 Oct. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/32859553/The+Animals/Don%27t+Let+Me+Be+Misunderstood>.

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    Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood

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    Top Hot 100 Songs 1965

    Billboard #15


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