Introduction
10cc’s hit single “I’m Not In Love” is a song that has withstood the test of time. Released in 1975, the song found its way into countless hearts and became an anthem for those who are struggling with the realization of their feelings. The song is still popular today and remains relevant to modern audiences.
Despite its popularity, the meaning behind the song remains shrouded in mystery. In this article, we will delve deeper into the lyrics and explore what the song is really about. We will examine the history behind the creation of “I’m Not In Love” and the various interpretations that have been made over the years.
The Making of “I’m Not In Love”
“I’m Not In Love” was written and produced by Eric Stewart and Graham Gouldman, both of whom were members of the band 10cc. The song was recorded at the Strawberry Studios in Stockport, England, using a technique that was groundbreaking at the time.
According to Stewart, the song was inspired by a love affair he had in his youth. He wanted to create a song that captured the feeling of being overwhelmed by emotions but not wanting to fully commit to the relationship.
Stewart and Gouldman spent countless hours in the studio experimenting with different sounds and techniques. They used a total of 48 tracks to create the song, which was unheard of at the time.
The vocals in the song were created using a technique called “diaphonic singing,” where multiple voices are layered on top of each other to create a choir-like effect. The result was a haunting, ethereal sound that perfectly complements the song’s theme of unrequited love.
The True Meaning Behind “I’m Not In Love”
Despite its title, “I’m Not In Love” is actually a love song. The lyrics describe a person who is struggling to come to terms with their feelings for someone else. The singer repeats the phrase “I’m not in love” throughout the song, but the repetition only highlights the opposite.
The song’s opening lines set the tone for the rest of the lyrics:
“I’m not in love, so don’t forget it.
It’s just a silly phase I’m going through.
And just because I call you up,
Don’t get me wrong, don’t think you’ve got it made.”
The singer is trying to convince themselves that their feelings for the other person are not real, so they don’t get hurt. They are trying to convince the other person that their actions don’t mean anything and that they’re not serious about the relationship.
The chorus of the song is where the singer truly reveals their feelings:
“Be quiet, big boys don’t cry,
Be quiet, big boys don’t cry,
Be quiet, big boys don’t cry…”
The repetition of the phrase “big boys don’t cry” suggests that the singer is trying to be tough and not show their vulnerability. They are fighting against their own emotions and trying to convince themselves that they’re not in love.
The bridge of the song features a spoken-word section where a woman’s voice repeatedly says, “big boys, don’t cry.” This section is meant to be a counterpoint to the singer’s denial of his feelings. It suggests that the person he is singing to already knows how he feels and is trying to convince him to embrace his emotions.
The outro of the song features a repetition of the phrase “I’m not in love” over and over again. This repetition is meant to highlight the singer’s denial and the struggle he is facing with his own emotions.
Interpretations of the Song
Over the years, “I’m Not In Love” has been subject to interpretation by both fans and critics. Some have suggested that the song is about a man who is in denial about being gay, while others have suggested that it is about a man who is afraid to commit to a relationship.
Despite these different interpretations, the song’s true meaning remains rooted in the struggles faced by anyone who is holding back their true emotions for fear of getting hurt. It is a relatable theme that has resonated with audiences for over 45 years.
The Legacy of “I’m Not In Love”
“I’m Not In Love” has become a timeless classic, with its haunting melody and poignant lyrics striking a chord with listeners of all generations. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Tori Amos, Diana Ross, and Fun Lovin’ Criminals.
In addition to its musical legacy, the song has also made a significant impact in popular culture. It has been featured in a number of films and TV shows, including “Guardians of the Galaxy” and “Stranger Things.”
Conclusion
“I’m Not In Love” is a song that has touched the hearts of millions of people over the years. Its themes of denial and unrequited love are universal, making it a timeless classic that has stood the test of time.
The song’s legacy is a testament to the talent and vision of Eric Stewart and Graham Gouldman, who created a masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences to this day. “I’m Not In Love” is a song that will always be remembered and cherished by music lovers around the world.
