About the song
Bill Withers’ timeless ballad, “Ain’t No Sunshine,” is a poignant exploration of loneliness and the void left behind when a loved one is absent. Released in 1971 as part of his debut album, Just As I Am, the song quickly became a soulful anthem that resonated with audiences worldwide.
With its stripped-down instrumentation and Withers’ raw, emotive vocals, “Ain’t No Sunshine” paints a vivid picture of despair. The repetitive refrain, “I know, I know,” echoes the singer’s internal turmoil as he grapples with the absence of his beloved. The song’s simplicity belies its emotional depth, allowing Withers’ heartfelt lyrics to take center stage.
Inspired by the 1962 film Days of Wine and Roses, Withers drew parallels between the characters’ struggles with alcoholism and his own experiences with loss and longing. The song’s themes of addiction and dependence resonate with listeners on a universal level, making it a timeless piece of music.
“Ain’t No Sunshine” quickly ascended the charts, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying Withers’ status as a rising star. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its emotional impact and Withers’ ability to capture the essence of human longing.
In 2024, “Ain’t No Sunshine” was added to the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress, recognizing its cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance. This recognition further cemented the song’s place in the annals of music history.
As we listen to “Ain’t No Sunshine” today, we are reminded of the power of music to connect with us on a deeply personal level. Withers’ heartfelt performance and the song’s timeless message continue to resonate with audiences of all ages, making it a true classic of the soul genre.
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Lyrics
Ain’t no sunshine when she’s gone
It’s not warm when she’s away
Ain’t no sunshine when she’s gone
And she’s always gone too long
Anytime she’s goes away
Wonder this time where she’s gone
Wonder if she’s gone to stay
Ain’t no sunshine when she’s gone
And this house just ain’t no home
Anytime she goes away
And I know, I know, I know, I know
I know, I know, I know, I know, I know
I know, I know, I know, I know, I know
I know, I know, I know, I know, I know
I know, I know, I know, I know, I know
I know, I know
Hey, I ought to leave young thing alone
But ain’t no sunshine when she’s gone, whoa-whoa
Ain’t no sunshine when she’s gone
Only darkness every day
Ain’t no sunshine when she’s gone
And this house just ain’t no home
Anytime she goes away
Anytime she goes away
Anytime she goes away
Anytime she goes away