About the song
Jimi Hendrix, a name synonymous with innovation and virtuosity in rock music, left an indelible mark on the world with his groundbreaking style and soulful artistry. Among his many remarkable tracks, “You Got Me Floatin’” stands out as a vibrant, dynamic piece that showcases his boundless energy and creativity. This song, released in 1967 on The Jimi Hendrix Experience’s second studio album, “Axis: Bold as Love”, is a perfect example of Hendrix’s ability to blend rock, blues, and funk into a seamless and electrifying musical experience.
“You Got Me Floatin’” is an exuberant celebration of love, freedom, and the joy of connection. Its upbeat tempo and infectious rhythm make it one of the more lighthearted tracks on “Axis: Bold as Love”, which otherwise delves into themes of introspection and the human psyche. Lyrically, the song captures the euphoric feeling of being uplifted by love, with Hendrix singing about how the presence of someone special can make life feel weightless. The phrase “You got me floatin’” becomes a metaphor for emotional and spiritual elevation, a sensation many listeners can relate to.
Musically, the track is a testament to Hendrix’s innovative approach to sound. From the opening notes, the song bursts with vitality, driven by a tight rhythm section and Hendrix’s distinctive guitar work. His guitar tone is sharp and bright, perfectly complementing the upbeat nature of the song. Noel Redding on bass and Mitch Mitchell on drums provide a solid, energetic foundation that propels the track forward with relentless momentum. Notably, The Sweet Inspirations, a female vocal group who also worked with artists like Aretha Franklin, lend their voices to the track, adding a soulful harmony that enriches the overall texture of the song.
“You Got Me Floatin’” was part of “Axis: Bold as Love”, an album that marked a significant evolution in Hendrix’s artistry. Released on December 1, 1967, in the UK (and early 1968 in the US), the album demonstrated Hendrix’s growth as a songwriter and his willingness to experiment with new sounds and recording techniques. While the record includes introspective pieces like “Little Wing” and the psychedelic grandeur of “Bold as Love”, “You Got Me Floatin’” serves as a lively counterbalance, bringing an infectious sense of fun to the mix.
Socially and culturally, the song reflects the optimism and energy of the late 1960s, a time when music was both a form of escape and a catalyst for change. Hendrix’s vibrant delivery and innovative style were emblematic of a generation breaking free from traditional norms and exploring new possibilities. The track’s joyful tone and universal message of upliftment resonate with audiences to this day, making it a timeless piece in Hendrix’s catalog.
In conclusion, “You Got Me Floatin’” is a spirited, dynamic track that captures the essence of Jimi Hendrix’s musical genius. It’s a celebration of love, freedom, and the transformative power of connection, delivered with the raw energy and unparalleled skill that made Hendrix a legend. Nestled within the masterpiece that is “Axis: Bold as Love”, this song continues to float above the constraints of time, reminding us of the joy that music can bring.
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Lyrics
You got me floatin’ round and roundAlways up, you never let me downThe amazing thing, you turn me on naturallyAnd I kiss you when I pleaseYou got me floatin’ round and roundYou got me floatin’ never downYou got me floatin’ naturallyYou got me floatin’ float to pleaseYou got me floatin’ across and throughYou make me float right on up to youThere’s only one thing I need to really get me thereIs to hear you laugh without a careYou got me floatin’ round and roundYou got me floatin’ never downYou got me floatin’ naturallyYou got me floatin’ float to pleaseYou got me floatin’ round and roundYou got me floatin’ never downYou got me floatin’ naturallyYou got me floatin’ float to pleaseNow your Daddy’s cool, and your Mamma’s no foolThey both know I’m heads over heels for youAnd when the day melts down into a sleepy red glowThat’s when my desires start to showYou got me floatin’