About the song
**Janis Joplin**, the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll, delivered a performance that would forever define her career with the raucous, soulful anthem, “Piece of My Heart.” Released in 1967, this song became a cornerstone of the psychedelic rock era, capturing the raw energy and emotional intensity of the time.
Joplin’s powerful voice, a blend of blues, soul, and rock, soared over the driving rhythm section and the wailing guitar solos. Her lyrics, filled with heartbreak and longing, resonated with audiences who were searching for authenticity and expression in their music. “Piece of My Heart” was more than just a song; it was a cathartic release, a declaration of independence, and a testament to the human spirit’s resilience.
The song’s opening lines, “I’m gonna give you all I’ve got,” immediately set the tone for a passionate and intense performance. Joplin’s vocals, raw and unfiltered, conveyed a sense of vulnerability and desperation. The lyrics, filled with imagery of lost love and heartbreak, resonated with listeners on a deep emotional level. The bridge, with its repeated refrain of “I’m gonna make you love me,” was a powerful declaration of desire and longing.
“Piece of My Heart” was a departure from the more polished and commercial sound of many of her contemporaries. Joplin’s unbridled energy and authenticity made her a standout figure in the music industry. The song’s success cemented her status as a rock icon and ensured her place in music history.
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Lyrics
Oh, come on, come on, come on, come on
Didn’t I make you feel like you were the only man? Yeah
And didn’t I give you nearly everything that a woman possibly can?
Honey, you know I did
And each time I tell myself that I, well I think I’ve had enough
But I’m gonna show you, baby, that a woman can be tough
I want you to come on, come on, come on, come on and take it
Take another little piece of my heart now, baby (whoa, break it)
Break another little bit of my heart now, darling, yeah, yeah, yeah (whoa, have a)
Have another little piece of my heart now, baby
You know you got it if it makes you feel good
Oh, yes indeed
You’re out on the streets looking good
And baby, deep down in your heart, I guess you know that it ain’t right
Never, never, never, never, never, never hear me when I cry at night
Babe, and I cry all the time
But each time I tell myself that I, well I can’t stand the pain
But when you hold me in your arms, I’ll sing it once again
I said come on, come on, come on, come on and take it
Take another little piece of my heart now, baby
Break another little bit of my heart now, darling, yeah
Have another little piece of my heart now, baby
Well, you know you got it, child, if it makes you feel good
I need you to come on, come on, come on, come on and take it
Take another little piece of my heart now, baby (whoa, break it)
Break another little bit of my heart, now darling, yeah, c’mon now (whoa, have a)
Have another little piece of my heart now, baby
You know you got it, whoa
Take it
Take another little piece of my heart now, baby (whoa, break it)
Break another little bit of my heart, now darling, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah (whoa, have a)
Have another little piece of my heart now, baby, hey
You know you got it, child, if it makes you feel good