The Meaning Behind The Song: Hummingbird by B.B. King
Hummingbird is a song that was originally written and recorded by Leon Russell in the year 1975. However, blues legend B.B. King covered the song and released it in his 1979 album, “Take It Home”. B.B. King’s version of the song went on to become one of his biggest hits, reaching number 48 on the Billboard Hot 100. This article will explore the meaning behind B.B. King’s version of Hummingbird and why it became such a beloved song across the globe.
Table of Contents
The Lyrics
The lyrics of the song describe a man’s love for his Hummingbird – a term used to refer to his lover. He sings about how she flies from flower to flower, never staying in one place for too long. In the song, B.B. King compares his Hummingbird’s beauty and grace to that of a bird in flight.
However, despite his love for her, the man in the song is unable to fully enjoy his relationship with the Hummingbird. He acknowledges that she is free and cannot be tied down, and that he is not the only one who desires her. He pleads with her to stay with him, but he knows that she will eventually fly away once again.
The Symbolism
The song goes beyond the surface level of just a man singing about his love for a woman. Instead, the lyrics are filled with symbolism that weaves together multiple themes. Hummingbirds are often used to represent love, freedom, and the fleeting nature of life. The use of the bird as a metaphor helps to highlight the fragility of the relationship between the man and the woman.
The Hummingbird’s fleeting nature is also used to comment on the nature of life itself. Everything in life is temporary, and just like the Hummingbird, we are all here for a brief moment before flying away. The song is a bittersweet reminder to cherish the moments we have with the people we love before they too, inevitably leave us.
Frequently Asked Questions
What inspired B.B. King’s version of Hummingbird?
B.B. King was inspired to cover the song after hearing Leon Russell’s original recording. He was drawn to the lyrics and the emotion behind the song. In an interview, King revealed that he felt a deep connection to the lyrics of Hummingbird and wanted to make it his own.
What is the significance of the term ‘Hummingbird’ in the song?
The term ‘Hummingbird’ in the song is used as a metaphor for the woman that the man loves. The Hummingbird’s beauty, grace, and fleeting nature symbolize the man’s feelings towards his lover. It also serves as a bittersweet reminder of the temporary nature of life and the relationships we have with others.
What was the reception to B.B. King’s version of Hummingbird?
B.B. King’s version of Hummingbird was a commercial success, reaching number 48 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1979. It also received critical acclaim and is considered one of King’s most beloved songs.
Are there any other notable covers of Hummingbird?
Yes, there are a few other notable covers of Hummingbird. Notably, the song has been covered by Dionne Warwick, Leon Russell (the original writer), and Jeff Beck. However, none of these covers have reached the same level of success as B.B. King’s version.
What other songs are similar to Hummingbird in meaning?
Some other songs that explore similar themes to Hummingbird include “Wild Horses” by The Rolling Stones, “Yesterday” by The Beatles, and “Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd. These songs all examine the fleeting nature of life and the importance of cherishing the relationships we have with others.
What genre of music does Hummingbird belong to?
Hummingbird is a blues song, a genre that B.B. King is known for. The song features prominent guitar work and soulful vocals, which are hallmarks of the blues genre.
What was the impact of Hummingbird on B.B. King’s career?
Hummingbird was one of B.B. King’s most successful songs, and it helped to solidify his legacy as one of the greatest blues musicians of all time. The song remains a beloved classic among fans of blues music.
What was the inspiration behind the lyrics of Hummingbird?
The original writer of Hummingbird, Leon Russell, has not commented on the inspiration behind the lyrics. However, the song is widely interpreted as a commentary on the fleeting nature of life and the importance of cherishing the moments we have with others.
Did B.B. King write any other songs similar to Hummingbird?
B.B. King wrote and recorded many blues songs throughout his career, many of which explored similar themes to Hummingbird. Some notable examples include “The Thrill is Gone,” “Sweet Little Angel,” and “Every Day I Have the Blues.”
What is the meaning behind the line “flyin’ high and flyin’ low” in the song?
The line “flyin’ high and flyin’ low” is used to describe the Hummingbird’s movements. It is meant to represent the bird’s freedom to go wherever it pleases, be it high in the sky or low to the ground. The line is symbolic of the woman’s free spirit and her inability to be pinned down by the man.
Why is Hummingbird such a beloved song?
Hummingbird is a beloved song because of its timeless message that speaks to people of all ages and backgrounds. The song’s themes of love, freedom, and the fleeting nature of life resonate with listeners in a profound way.
Did B.B. King ever perform Hummingbird live?
Yes, B.B. King performed Hummingbird live at many of his concerts throughout his career. The song was often a fan favorite and received rapturous applause from audiences.
What is the legacy of Hummingbird in the world of blues music?
Hummingbird remains a beloved classic in the world of blues music and is considered one of B.B. King’s greatest songs. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timelessness and the profound impact it has had on generations of music lovers.
