The song "I Got It Bad (And That Ain't Good)" was originally written by Duke Ellington and Paul Francis Webster. Julie London recorded her version of the song in 1955. The lyrics describe the singer's troubled and unfulfilling relationship with her partner. In the song, the singer expresses her dissatisfaction with how her partner treats her. She feels that he doesn't treat her with kindness and tenderness, the way he should. She acknowledges that she has strong feelings for him, but recognizes that her affection is not reciprocated. The singer describes her heart as being sentimental and not made of wood, indicating that she is sensitive and emotional. Despite being aware of the negative aspects of her relationship, she cannot help but be deeply affected by her love for her partner. The lyrics also mention how the singer and her partner engage in various activities together, like drinking gin, praying, and sinning. This suggests a complex and complicated dynamic in their relationship. Overall, the song conveys a sense of longing, heartache, and the pain of unrequited love. It explores the feelings of being trapped in a relationship where one person's love is not returned equally. The phrase "I got it bad, and that ain't good" reflects the singer's understanding that her situation is far from ideal, yet she cannot help her strong emotions. Julie London's rendition of "I Got It Bad (And That Ain't Good)" elegantly captures the vulnerability and sadness of the lyrics, creating a poignant and emotional atmosphere.
