About the song
James Taylor’s “Something in the Way She Moves” is a profound showcase of his early artistry, reflecting his distinctive blend of folk, rock, and emotional depth. Originally released in 1968 as the title track of his debut album, this song marked the beginning of a career that would redefine singer-songwriter music.
“Something in the Way She Moves” first appeared on Taylor’s self-titled album, *James Taylor*, which was released in 1968. This album, while not a commercial success at the time, set the stage for Taylor’s future achievements and earned him a record deal with Apple Records, thanks to the influence of Paul McCartney. The song itself, with its poignant lyrics and gentle melody, captures the essence of Taylor’s introspective and lyrical style.
The live performance of “Something in the Way She Moves” that was recorded on December 5, 1970, and featured on “Disco 2” highlights the evolution of Taylor’s sound during a formative period in his career. By 1970, Taylor had become a prominent figure in the folk and rock scenes, with his breakthrough album, *Sweet Baby James* (1970), achieving significant commercial success. The live rendition from this period reflects his growing confidence as a performer and his ability to connect deeply with his audience through his evocative songwriting and soothing vocal delivery.
In this performance, Taylor’s interpretation of “Something in the Way She Moves” resonates with a new level of emotional sophistication and musical refinement. The song’s introspective lyrics and delicate acoustic arrangements exemplify Taylor’s signature style, characterized by its lyrical honesty and melodic simplicity.
Overall, this particular live performance from 1970 offers a glimpse into James Taylor’s burgeoning career and his ability to convey profound emotion through his music. As Taylor continued to develop his craft, he would go on to produce a series of influential albums that cemented his place as one of the most beloved singer-songwriters of his generation. “Something in the Way She Moves” remains a testament to his early genius and enduring appeal, capturing the intimate and reflective qualities that define his remarkable career.
Video
Lyrics
There’s something in the way she moves
Or looks my way, or calls my name
That seems to leave this troubled world behind
If I’m feeling down and blue
Or troubled by some foolish game
She always seems to make me change my mind
And I feel fine anytime she’s around me now
She’s around me now
Almost all the time
And if I’m well you can tell she’s been with me now
She’s been with me now quite a long, long time
And I feel fine
Every now and then the things I lean on lose their meaning
And I find myself careening
In places where I should not let me go
She has the power to go where no one else can find me
Yes and silently remind me
The happiness and the good times that I know, but as I had got to know them
It isn’t what she’s got to say
But how she thinks and where she’s been
To me, the words are nice, the way they sound
I like to hear them best that way
It doesn’t much matter what they mean
What she says them mostly just to calm me down
And I feel fine anytime she’s around me now
She’s around me now
Almost all the time
If I’m well you can tell she’s been with me now
She’s been with me now quite a long, long time
Yes and I feel fine