About the song
Janis Joplin remains one of the most powerful and iconic voices in the history of rock and blues, and her song “One Good Man” is a poignant testament to her unique ability to blend raw emotion with soulful authenticity. Featured on her 1969 album “I Got Dem Ol’ Kozmic Blues Again Mama!”, this track highlights her vulnerable yet resolute spirit as an artist, capturing the longing and complexity of human relationships.
Released in September 1969, “I Got Dem Ol’ Kozmic Blues Again Mama!” was Janis’s first solo studio album after leaving her previous band, Big Brother and the Holding Company. The album showcased her evolving musical style, incorporating elements of blues, soul, and rock, with a horn section that added depth and a new dimension to her sound. “One Good Man” serves as a centerpiece of the album, emphasizing her desire for simplicity and sincerity in love—a theme deeply resonant with listeners then and now.
The lyrics of “One Good Man” reveal Janis’s introspective side, as she openly ponders the nature of love and companionship. Her plea for “one good man” isn’t just about romantic connection; it reflects her yearning for authenticity and stability in a turbulent world. The rawness of her delivery underscores her honesty, as her gritty, heartfelt voice conveys a blend of hope and heartbreak. In this way, the song stands as a reflection of her personal struggles and the universal quest for meaningful relationships.
Musically, “One Good Man” is steeped in blues traditions, with a simple yet evocative arrangement that places Janis’s voice at the forefront. The instrumentation—led by soulful guitar riffs and a steady rhythm section—provides a subdued yet powerful backdrop, allowing the depth of her emotion to shine. This minimalist approach enhances the song’s impact, drawing listeners into her world and inviting them to share in her introspection.
The societal context of the late 1960s also adds weight to “One Good Man.” At a time when counterculture movements were challenging traditional norms, Janis stood out as a fiercely independent woman unafraid to express her vulnerabilities and desires. Her authenticity resonated deeply with fans, making her a symbol of both strength and fragility. “One Good Man” is not just a love song; it’s a statement about the importance of integrity and connection in a rapidly changing world.
Today, “One Good Man” remains a timeless piece in Janis Joplin’s discography, showcasing her unparalleled ability to channel raw emotion into her music. It’s a song that reminds us of her humanity and her immense talent, ensuring that her legacy endures as one of the most powerful voices in music history.
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Lyrics
Honey, I love to go to partiesAnd I like to have a good time,But if it gets too pale after a whileHoney and I start looking to findOne good man.Hmm, don’t you know I’ve been searching,Oh yes I have!One good man,Oh ain’t much, honey ain’t much,It’s only everything, whoa.An’ I don’t want much outta life,I never wanted a mansion in the South.I just-a want to find someone sincereWho’d treat me like he talks,One good man.Oh honey don’t you know that I’ve been looking.Oh, one good manAin’t much, honey it ain’t much,Oh, it’s only everything.All right.Some girls they want to collect their men,They wear ’em like notches on a gun.Oh honey, but I know better than that,I know that a woman only needs one.One good man, oh,Oh baby don’t you know I’ve been looking, hmm.One good man,It ain’t much, no, no honey it ain’t much,Oh, it’s only every little thing,Just-a everything, everythingAh yeah.