They listen when you need to talk Talk when you need to listen They know your darkness Let you know theirs Without judgement and expectation You can talk to them about how you see things They don't get angry or anxious when you disagree Trust you enough to say what they really think Read tweets and novels Never make you beg or grovel Won't allow it Remind you that you're better than that Lay some of their burden on you Let you behind their wall Feel welcome behind yours You feel each other with heart and mind Even if you don't explain yourself They get you You get them These are the ones that make life worth living Make you love to be alive Reflect you to you Teach and learn Some days the lead singer Some days the band These are the ones You can count on one hand (c) Ron Kennedy
The Evolution of “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” Nina Simone: The Original Voice Nina Simone , the iconic American singer-songwriter and pianist, recorded the first version of “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” in 1964. The song was penned by a trio of talented songwriters: Bennie Benjamin , Horace Ott , and Sol Marcus . The melody and chorus lyrics were conceived by arranger Horace Ott during a temporary falling out with his girlfriend (and future wife), Gloria Caldwell. Ott then collaborated with Benjamin and Marcus to complete the composition. Interestingly, due to the rules of the time, which prevented BMI writers (like Ott) from officially collaborating with ASCAP members (like Benjamin and Marcus), Ott listed Gloria Caldwell’s name instead of his own on the credits. Simone’s rendition of the song was characterized by its slow tempo, orchestral elements (including a harp), and her signature, difficult-to-categorize vocal style. Some interpret this version as carrying the subtext of