The Meaning Behind The Song: Imaginary Lover by Atlanta Rhythm Section
Introduction
The Atlanta Rhythm Section (ARS) is a Southern rock band formed in 1971. The band created numerous hits throughout the 70s, including “Imaginary Lover.” The band’s lead singer, Ronnie Hammond, passed away in 2011, but the group continues to tour and perform with original members.
“Homesick” and “Imaginary Lover” are two of ARS’s most popular hits. “Imaginary Lover” is a song that resonated with many listeners, and its lyrics still hold power decades after its release.
The Song
“Imaginary Lover” was written by Buddy Buie, Dean Daughtry, and Ronnie Hammond and released in 1978. In the song, Ronnie Hammond sings about a lover who doesn’t exist, calling her his “imagination” and his “fantasy.”
The song’s opening lines set the tone for the rest of the lyrics, with Hammond singing, “Imaginary lover, you’re mine anytime.” The song’s protagonist is in love with someone who isn’t real, and he knows it. He references this when he sings, “And I know in my heart you aren’t real, but until then you’re mine.”
The song’s chorus is catchy and features Hammond repeating the phrase, “Imaginary lover, you’re mine all mine.” The chorus is followed by a bluesy guitar solo that fits perfectly with the mood of the song.
The Meaning
The meaning behind “Imaginary Lover” is up for interpretation, but there are a few key themes. The most obvious one is unrequited love. The protagonist of the song is in love with someone who isn’t real, and he knows it. He acknowledges that his lover is just a fantasy and will never be anything more.
Another interpretation is that the song is about loneliness. The protagonist knows he doesn’t have a real lover, but he still finds comfort in his imaginary one. He sings, “I can’t wait for the nights with you, I imagine the things we’ll do.”
The Reception
“Imaginary Lover” was a hit when it was released and continues to be a popular song. It peaked at #7 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and has become one of ARS’s signature songs.
The song has also been used in multiple movies and TV shows, including The Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew Mysteries, Forrest Gump, and Austin Powers in Goldmember.
The Legacy
Though ARS has continued to perform without Ronnie Hammond, his legacy lives on through their music. “Imaginary Lover” is one of the band’s most popular songs and continues to be played on classic rock and radio stations to this day.
FAQs
1. Is “Imaginary Lover” based on a real person?
No, the song is about a lover who isn’t real. The lyrics make it clear that the protagonist knows his lover is just a fantasy.
2. What inspired the writing of “Imaginary Lover”?
The writers of the song haven’t given a specific inspiration for it, but it’s likely that their own experiences with unrequited love and loneliness played a role.
3. Who wrote “Imaginary Lover”?
The song was written by Buddy Buie, Dean Daughtry, and Ronnie Hammond.
4. What is Atlanta Rhythm Section’s biggest hit?
Atlanta Rhythm Section had multiple hits throughout the 70s, but “So Into You” and “Imaginary Lover” are two of their most popular songs.
5. Did Atlanta Rhythm Section tour extensively?
Yes, the band toured extensively throughout their career and still performs today.
6. How did “Imaginary Lover” do on the charts?
The song peaked at #7 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and was a hit when it was released.
7. Are any of the original members still in Atlanta Rhythm Section?
Yes, original members Dean Daughtry and J.R. Cobb still perform with the band.
8. How long has Atlanta Rhythm Section been together?
The band was formed in 1971 and has been together for over four decades.
9. What other popular songs did Atlanta Rhythm Section have?
Atlanta Rhythm Section had multiple hit songs, including “So Into You,” “Champagne Jam,” and “Spooky.”
10. What genre of music does Atlanta Rhythm Section play?
Atlanta Rhythm Section is known for playing Southern rock, but their music is also influenced by blues, funk, and country.
11. Did Atlanta Rhythm Section have any famous collaborations?
The band collaborated with a variety of musicians throughout their career, including Eddie Rabbitt, Ronnie Van Zant, and Lynyrd Skynyrd.
12. What impact has Atlanta Rhythm Section had on music?
Atlanta Rhythm Section paved the way for a variety of Southern rock bands and had multiple hit songs throughout their career. Their music is still enjoyed by new and old fans alike.
