About the song
Let’s dive into the wistful melodies of folk music with “Both Sides Now” by the legendary Joni Mitchell. This timeless ballad invites listeners on a journey through the complexities of life, love, and perception.
Written and originally recorded by Joni Mitchell herself, “Both Sides Now” first appeared on her 1969 album “Clouds.” Mitchell’s introspective lyrics and ethereal vocals captivated audiences, earning the song widespread acclaim and recognition.
Upon its release, “Both Sides Now” quickly climbed the charts, reaching number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and solidifying Joni Mitchell’s status as one of the preeminent voices in folk music. Its haunting melody and thought-provoking lyrics struck a chord with listeners, resonating deeply with audiences around the world.
What sets “Both Sides Now” apart is its timeless appeal and universal themes of reflection and introspection. Mitchell’s evocative storytelling transports listeners to a world of fleeting moments and shifting perspectives, where the only constant is change itself.
Decades after its release, “Both Sides Now” remains a beloved classic in Joni Mitchell’s repertoire, cherished by fans old and new. Its enduring popularity serves as a testament to Mitchell’s profound influence on the folk music landscape and her ability to capture the essence of the human experience in all its beauty and complexity.
So, if you’re in the mood for a musical journey through the depths of emotion and perception, look no further than Joni Mitchell’s mesmerizing masterpiece, “Both Sides Now.” Let its haunting melody and introspective lyrics transport you to a world of endless possibilities and timeless truths.
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Lyrics
Rows and floes of angel hair
And ice cream castles in the air
And feather canyons everywhere
Looked at clouds that way
But now they only block the sun
They rain and they snow on everyone
So many things I would have done
But clouds got in my way
I’ve looked at clouds from both sides now
From up and down and still somehow
It’s cloud illusions I recall
I really don’t know clouds at all
Moons and Junes and Ferris wheels
The dizzy dancing way that you feel
As every fairy tale comes real
I’ve looked at love that way
But now it’s just another show
And you leave ’em laughing when you go
And if you care, don’t let them know
Don’t give yourself away
I’ve looked at love from both sides now
From give and take and still somehow
It’s love’s illusions that I recall
I really don’t know love
I really don’t know love at all
Tears and fears and feeling proud
To say, “I love you, ” right out loud
Dreams and schemes and circus crowds
I’ve looked at life that way
Oh, but now old friends, they’re acting strange
And they shake their heads and they tell me that I’ve changed
Well, something’s lost, but something’s gained
In living every day
I’ve looked at life from both sides now
From win and lose and still somehow
It’s life’s illusions I recall
I really don’t know life at all
It’s life’s illusions that I recall
I really don’t know life
I really don’t know life at all