Song of the Week: Like the Weather by 10000 Maniacs

About the Artist

Natalie Merchant is another of my favorite singer-songwriters. Actually, I think it is more accurate to say she is a poet that puts her words to music. She joined the band 10,000 Maniacs in 1981, and was lead vocalist and primary lyricist for the group. She remained with the group for their first seven albums and left it to begin her solo career in 1993. She has since released seven studio albums. Natalie grew up in a family that encouraged musical pursuits, but did not allow TV after the age of 12. As a teenager worked at a health food store and at a summer program for disabled children. She was considering a career in special education, but at age 17, she started singing with a local band that became 10000 maniacs.

About the Song

This song is from the Band’s first commercially successful album, In My Tribe, and this song was the first popular hit. The world was introduced to Natalie’s unique voice and rich lyrics. It is hard to find a song that has a great contrast between the feelings of the melody and the meaning of the words. While, the music is quite upbeat and fun, the song describes what it’s like to experience deep depression or at least a really gloomy day.

Lyrics

Genius.com SongMeanings.com

Notable Lyrics

Color of the sky as far as I can see is coal grey
Lift my head from the pillow and then fall again
Shiver in my bones, just thinking about the weather
Quiver in my lip as if I might cry
Well, by the force of will my lungs are filled and so I breathe
Hear the sound of a noon bell chime
Well, I’m far behind
You’ve put in ’bout half a day
Do I need someone here to scold me?
Or do I need someone who’ll grab and pull me out of
Four poster, dull torpor, pulling downward?