I sing it unaccompanied
"I Don't Know How to Love Him" is a song from the 1970 rock opera "Jesus Christ Superstar," with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice. Here are some key details about the song:
Context Within the Musical:
The song is sung by the character Mary Magdalene.
It appears in the second act of "Jesus Christ Superstar."
Mary sings this song as she grapples with her feelings for Jesus, who is depicted as a charismatic, yet increasingly troubled leader. The lyrics reflect her confusion and ambivalence about loving someone who is not only a spiritual figure but also possibly on the path to martyrdom.
Musical Style and Composition:
The song is a ballad, characterized by its soft, melodic tune which contrasts with much of the rock-infused score of the opera.
It's written in the key of B minor, which gives it a somewhat somber or introspective feel, fitting for the reflective nature of Mary's character at this point in the narrative.
The melody is simple yet poignant, allowing for an emotional delivery by the singer.
Lyrics and Themes:
The lyrics explore themes of love, faith, confusion, and the humanization of a divine figure. Mary expresses her struggle to understand her emotions, questioning whether her love for Jesus is romantic, spiritual, or a mix of both.
Lines like "He's just a man, and I've had so many men before / In very many ways, he's just one more" and "Should I bring him down, should I scream and shout" illustrate her internal conflict.
Cultural Impact and Covers:
"I Don't Know How to Love Him" has become one of the most recognized songs from "Jesus Christ Superstar."
It has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Helen Reddy, whose version became a hit single, Sarah Brightman, and even rock bands like The Moody Blues.
The song's emotional depth and universal themes of love and confusion make it resonate with a wide audience, leading to its frequent performance in various musical settings beyond the context of the original rock opera.
Performance and Legacy:
In the original 1970 concept album, Yvonne Elliman performed the song, contributing to its early popularity.
In theatre productions, the song is often a highlight, showcasing the emotional range of the actress playing Mary Magdalene.
Its legacy includes not only its place within the musical but also its status as a standalone piece in popular music, celebrated for its lyrical and melodic beauty.
"I Don't Know How to Love Him" remains a testament to the songwriting duo's ability to blend contemporary music with biblical narrative, creating a piece that speaks to human emotions and dilemmas across time.
Released:
18-Jan-2025
Category:
Musical Theater
Application:
GarageBand
File type:
mp3
File size:
7.0 Mb
Plays:
5
Downloads:
0
Weekly plays:
5
Weekly downloads:
0
License:
Commerical derivatives allowed; contact artist for permission
