About the song
Have you ever wished to forget? To erase the painful memories and start anew? That’s the poignant theme that country music legend Willie Nelson explores in his heartfelt ballad, “Amnesia”. Released in 1973 as part of his groundbreaking album, Shotgun Willie, this song offers a glimpse into the complexities of the human heart and the desire for a fresh beginning.
“Amnesia” is more than just a song; it’s a reflection on life’s inevitable ups and downs. Nelson’s signature raspy vocals, combined with the song’s melancholic melody, create a mood that is both nostalgic and hopeful. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with the weight of the past. He sings of “a string of Septembers that I can’t remember,” suggesting a longing to escape the burdens of time.
The beauty of “Amnesia” lies in its simplicity. Nelson doesn’t delve into specific details about the events he’s trying to forget; instead, he focuses on the universal human experience of longing for a fresh start. This universality allows listeners to connect with the song on a deeply personal level. Whether you’re dealing with a lost love, a failed dream, or simply the weight of growing older, “Amnesia” offers a comforting reminder that it’s okay to want to let go.
Musically, “Amnesia” is a prime example of Nelson’s ability to blend traditional country elements with a more contemporary sound. The song’s arrangement is sparse, allowing Nelson’s vocals and the haunting pedal steel guitar to take center stage. This stripped-down approach creates a raw and intimate atmosphere that draws listeners in.
“Amnesia” has become a staple of Nelson’s live performances, and it continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. The song’s timeless message of hope and resilience has ensured its place in the country music canon. If you’re looking for a song that will stay with you long after the last note fades, Willie Nelson’s “Amnesia” is definitely worth a listen.
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Lyrics
Well, I guess I can’t rhyme anymore.
I guess I got no more to say.
Or else I’d be puttin’it down.
Instead of just throwin’ it away.
I work like a slave for the future endgame.
Everything I love to the past.
There’s a string of septembers, that I can’t remember, and I hope my amnesia will last.
And, I guess I can’t rhyme anymore.
I guess I got no more to say.
Or else I’d be puttin’it down.
Instead of just throwin’ it away.
I guess I can’t rhyme anymore.
I guess I got no more to say.
Or else I’d be puttin’it down.
Instead of just throwin’ it away.