The song "Black and Blues" by Al Jarreau is a soulful and upbeat track that conveys a message of longing for companionship and support. The lyrics reveal the narrator's plea for someone to not leave them alone and to help them overcome their loneliness and emotional pain. The song begins with the repeated line, "I need somebody," emphasizing the narrator's yearning for companionship and connection. They express their exhaustion with being by themselves and their desire for someone to be there for them. The line, "No, don't you leave me on this shelf," suggests that the narrator feels overlooked or neglected, and they are pleading for someone to not abandon or disregard them. As the song progresses, the narrator asks for help in finding their "dancin' shoes" and healing their "black and blues." These phrases symbolize finding joy, release, and overcoming emotional hardships. The narrator suggests that by being together with someone else, they can find happiness and healing. The song also portrays a sense of urgency and desperation for companionship. The lyrics mention that the narrator lives nearby and assures the potential partner that they won't have to stay for too long. They invite the person to spend time with them, watch the rain, and enjoy some jasmine tea. This portrays a simple but meaningful way of connecting with someone, showing the narrator's willingness to cherish their time together. The verse, "Sweet dreams in town tonight, let's go feel the light, leave those blues in the rain," further emphasizes the desire to escape negative emotions and find solace in each other's company. The lyrics suggest that sharing love and comfort with someone else can help to alleviate pain and bring happiness. Towards the end of the song, the lyrics express the idea that being together and experiencing happiness can help the narrator forget their troubles and bad dreams. The lines, "This is the way to forget those bad dreams, oh, don't you feel more like yourself, so good to be down off the shelf," convey a sense of liberation and relief that comes from having someone by their side. In summary, "Black and Blues" by Al Jarreau tells a story of longing for companionship, connection, and support. The lyrics portray the narrator's desire for someone to accompany them through life's challenges, find happiness together, and overcome emotional pain. Through the joy of being together, they find solace and healing from their "black and blues."
