As a music journalist, I have the opportunity to explore the stories behind songs that have touched the hearts of listeners around the world. Today, I want to delve into the meaning behind one of my personal favorites: “Feels Like Rain” by John Hiatt. This track, featured on his 1988 album ‘Slow Turning,’ truly captures the essence of love and emotion.
I first heard this song on a lazy summer afternoon. I remember stumbling upon it at a friend’s house while we were reminiscing about old times. As the music began to fill the room, I was captivated by the soulful and bluesy sound, which perfectly complemented the lyrics that unfolded with each verse.
“Down here the river meets the sea, And in the sticky heat, I feel ya’ open up to me,” Hiatt sings in the opening lines. These words vividly paint a picture of a passionate encounter, where love unexpectedly takes hold of two souls amidst the stormy weather. The comparison to a hurricane expresses the intensity and unpredictability of love, how it can sweep over us without warning.
The chorus repeats the phrase “And it feels like rain,” emphasizing the connection between rain and the overwhelming emotions one might experience when falling deeply in love. The metaphor suggests that just like rain, love can cleanse and wash away any pain or troubles, leaving behind a sense of renewal and purity.
The second verse takes us on a journey under the stars, as Hiatt wonders about his partner and their connection. “The clouds roll in across the moon, wind howls out your name,” he sings. These lyrics create a sense of longing and desire, as Hiatt contemplates the depths of his feelings for this person.
One of the most poignant parts of the song comes in the bridge, where Hiatt accepts the reality that they may never make it to their desired destination. “We ain’t never gonna’ make that bridge tonight, baby, across the Ponchartrain,” he confesses. Despite this setback, the stormy weather serves as a metaphorical backdrop for their relationship, reinforcing their commitment to staying together, regardless of what may come their way.
In these lyrics, Hiatt highlights the importance of weathering the storm both physically and emotionally. He urges his partner to “batten down the hatches” and to not let the impending storm drive them apart. This sentiment reflects the resilience and strength that can be found in a deep and enduring love.
Throughout the song, Hiatt’s raw and emotive vocals are accompanied by the skilled musicianship of Sonny Landreth and Bernie Leadon on guitars, creating a hauntingly beautiful backdrop for the lyrics. The combination of blues, rock, and folk elements gives “Feels Like Rain” its timeless quality.
In conclusion, “Feels Like Rain” by John Hiatt carries a profound meaning that resonates with listeners on a deeply emotional level. The metaphorical language, the imagery of stormy weather, and the intense passion portrayed in the lyrics all contribute to a song that captures the essence of love’s unpredictable nature. As Hiatt’s soulful voice cuts through the music, we are reminded of the power of love and its ability to weather any storm that comes our way.
