“Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” is a song originally written by Bennie Benjamin, Gloria Caldwell, and Sol Marcus. It was first recorded by American singer and pianist Nina Simone in 1964 and was included on her album “Broadway-Blues-Ballads.”
Nina Simone’s version of “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” is characterized by her powerful and emotional vocal delivery. The song’s lyrics express a sense of vulnerability and the desire to be understood and not misjudged. The chorus includes the repeated plea, “Baby, don’t you know I’m human / Have thoughts like any other one.”
The song has been covered by various artists over the years, but one of the most famous covers is by the British rock band The Animals. Their version of “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” was released in 1965 and became a hit, reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The Animals’ rendition is known for its rock and blues arrangement, featuring Eric Burdon’s distinctive vocals. Their energetic and soulful interpretation of the song helped make it a classic of the rock genre.
“Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” has become an enduring and iconic song in both Nina Simone’s and The Animals’ catalogs. It’s celebrated for its emotional depth and the powerful vocal performances of the artists who have covered it.
