About the song
Released posthumously in 1971 as part of the album “The Cry of Love”, “Message to Love” stands as one of Jimi Hendrix’s most poignant and spiritually charged tracks. The album, which was assembled by Hendrix’s engineer and producer Eddie Kramer from various recordings Hendrix had made prior to his death in 1970, marked a departure from the wild, psychedelic rock of his earlier work. While it retains some of the signature fire and innovation of Hendrix’s music, the songs featured in “The Cry of Love”, including “Message to Love”, reflect a more introspective and personal side of the guitarist.
“Message to Love” is notable for its blend of soulful guitar work and deeply philosophical lyrics. The song’s meaning centers on themes of peace, love, and understanding—messages that were increasingly important in the late 1960s and early 1970s, especially as the world faced social and political upheaval. In the song, Hendrix implores listeners to embrace love as a solution to the world’s problems, encouraging them to open their hearts and minds to one another. The lyrics speak of “a message to love,” framing love not just as an abstract concept, but as a radical force capable of transforming society.
While Hendrix had always been known for his fiery guitar riffs and groundbreaking rock sound, “Message to Love” reveals a more sensitive and contemplative side to his artistry. His guitar playing in this song is at once expressive and evocative, using soulful bends and wails to mirror the themes of longing, hope, and sorrow woven into the lyrics. Hendrix’s ability to intertwine his musical virtuosity with his lyrical themes made “Message to Love” a powerful example of his later, more mature work. The song is less about raw energy and more about emotional depth—his guitar lines act almost as an extension of his voice, echoing his message of unity and peace.
Socially, “Message to Love” was very much a product of its time. The late 1960s and early 1970s were marked by widespread protests, social movements, and a growing desire for societal change. Hendrix, who had become an icon of counterculture and youth rebellion, was deeply affected by the turbulence of the era. His music had always served as a soundtrack for the counterculture, but “Message to Love” marked a shift toward a more reflective stance. Rather than railing against authority or societal norms, this track urges listeners to take a more constructive approach, one based on love and understanding. The song embodies a hope that transcends the chaos of the time and calls for a collective return to more humane, compassionate values.
In terms of influence, “Message to Love” exemplifies the ongoing evolution of Hendrix’s sound. It integrates elements of soul, funk, and rock, blending them into his trademark style that was already renowned for its virtuosity and innovation. This track is one of the last examples of Hendrix experimenting with a fusion of genres that would have continued to push boundaries had he lived longer. It was also part of his attempt to move into new musical territories, possibly incorporating more funk rhythms and soul influences into his work. As one of his last recorded songs, it reflects the direction his artistry might have taken had he not tragically passed away at the age of 27.
The song was part of Hendrix’s desire to craft a more mature, layered sound that could speak to a broader audience. In this respect, “Message to Love” can be seen as part of Hendrix’s continued effort to evolve beyond the boundaries of rock music into something more universally communicative. His fans, many of whom were young, impressionable, and attuned to the messages of the counterculture, found in this song a sense of solidarity and shared purpose. The emphasis on love as a means to heal divisions and create understanding resonated deeply with listeners seeking hope amidst the strife of the era.
Additionally, “Message to Love” was a key piece in defining Hendrix’s posthumous legacy. His death in 1970, just as he was transitioning into new musical territory, left a sense of unfinished potential. However, songs like this one provided a glimpse into the directions he might have taken had he lived longer. The track, like many of the songs on “The Cry of Love”, offered a more refined and mature version of Hendrix, one that combined the rawness of his early years with a newly developed sense of introspection and depth.
In conclusion, “Message to Love” is more than just a song—it is a representation of Jimi Hendrix’s evolving musical and philosophical voice. With its soulful guitar lines and reflective lyrics, the track communicates a timeless message of peace and love that transcended the specific context of the 1960s and 1970s, continuing to resonate with generations long after it was first recorded. Hendrix’s legacy as a musical innovator and a visionary artist is solidified in songs like “Message to Love”, which are a testament to his ability to blend technical mastery with profound social and emotional insight.
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Lyrics
well, I travel at the speed of a reborn manI got a lot of love to giveFrom the mirrors of my handI sent a message of loveDon’t you run awayLook at your heart, babyCome on along with me todayWell, I am what I am thank godSome people just don’t understand, well help them godFind yourselef first, and then your toolFind yourself first, don’t you be no foolHere comes a womanWrapped up in chainMessin’ with that fool, babyYour life is painIf you wanna be freeCome on along with meDon’t mess with the manHe’ll never understandI said, find yourself firstAnd then your talentWork hard in your mindSo it can come aliveYou beter prove to the manYou’re as strong as him‘Cause in the eyes of godYou’re both children to himEverybody come alive, everybody love aliveEverybody love alive, everybody hear my messageHey, oohHey, oohHey, oohHey, oohHey, oohHey, oohHey, now