About the song
Todd Rundgren, a musical polymath whose talents spanned songwriting, production, and instrumental prowess, released “Hello It’s Me” in 1972 as the lead single from his second solo album, *Something/Anything*. This track, a poignant exploration of longing and regret, quickly became a signature song for Rundgren, showcasing his ability to craft deeply personal and relatable narratives.
The song’s opening lines, “Hello, it’s me, I was wondering if you’d like to come and see me,” immediately set a nostalgic tone. Rundgren’s voice, both vulnerable and assertive, invites the listener into a world of introspection and memory. The simple, yet evocative lyrics paint a picture of a lost love, a longing for connection, and the bittersweet realization that time has passed.
Musically, “Hello It’s Me” is a masterclass in subtlety and restraint. The arrangement is sparse, allowing Rundgren’s vocals and the gentle acoustic guitar to take center stage. The song’s emotional depth is enhanced by the use of minor chords and a melancholic melody. The bridge, with its soaring vocal harmonies and a brief electric guitar solo, provides a moment of catharsis before the song returns to its intimate and reflective mood.
“Hello It’s Me” is a testament to Rundgren’s songwriting prowess and his ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless themes and its ability to evoke powerful emotions. It remains a classic of the singer-songwriter genre, a reminder of the power of music to capture the complexities of the human experience.
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Lyrics
Hello, it’s me
I’ve thought about us for a long long time
Maybe I think too much but something’s wrong
There’s something here, doesn’t last too long
Maybe I shouldn’t think of you as mine
Seeing you or seeing anything as much I do you
I take for granted that you’re always there
I take for granted that you just don’t care
Sometimes I can’t help seeing all the way through
It’s important to me
That you know you are free
‘Cause I never want to make you change for me
Think of me
You know that I’d be with you if I could
I’ll come around to see you once in a while
Or if I ever need a reason to smile
And spend the night if you think I should
me
(That you know you are free) free
‘Cause I never want to make you change for me
Think of me
You, you know that I’d be with you if I could
Come around to see you once in a while
Or if I ever need a reason to smile
And spend the night if you think I should