Sunny Sunday’s Song Of The Day: Ben Harper’s, “She’s Only Happy In The Sun”

As I do on Sundays, dedicating my day to spending time in nature, today, I thought I’d forgo writing a Sunday song post because I wanted to spend more time reflecting. But today happens to be a sunny day, and the warmth of the sun on my skin through my clothes, combined with a contemplative mood, made me think of Ben Harper’s song, “She’s Only Happy In The Sun.”

For a few reasons.

First, literally. Growing up in Ohio, where only one third of the year is sunny, I suffered from seasonal affective disorder. This was before it was widely known about or understood. For two thirds of the year, I suffered from depression and lethargy; eventually, I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia. From Ohio, I moved to New York City, but it wasn’t until I moved to California to recover from cancer that I realized how much I had suffered all those years, and how truly happy I was in the sun.

The song also strikes me metaphorically. The heart of this song lies in its lyrics, simultaneously expressing both happiness and melancholy, which to me is a reflection of what life presents — both joy and pain, and in them both, beauty. However, personally, having been through a lot and having healed a lot, I can say without question that I’d much rather be happy, in the sun.

There may be other interpretations for this song, but that is mine.

Musically, here are some things I appreciate about this song.

Ben Harper has one of the purest, most soulful voices. His beautiful, soothing resonance is comforting.

The arrangement, consisting of just acoustic guitar, bass, drums, and a flute-like sound, depending on which performance you listen to, is powerfully moving in its simplicity. The warmth of the acoustic instruments complement the warmth of his voice and the spirit of the song.

Very little production is needed. The song stands on its own in the basic elements.

Just a beautiful, stellar song.

Time to listen to it a few more times.

Best wishes to you today.

Lyrics:

i know you may not want to see me

on your way down from the clouds

would you hear me if i told you

that my heart is with you now

she’s only happy in the sun

did you find what you were after

the pain and the laughter brought

you to your knees

but if the sun sets you free

you’ll be free indeed

she’s only happy in the sun

every time i heard you laughing

it makes my cry

like the story of life

is hello goodbye

she’s only happy in the sun