Them Changes

Buddy Miles' song 'Them Changes' delves deep into the emotional chaos and mental upheaval that follows a painful breakup. The lyrics vividly capture the protagonist's struggle with his mental state, describing how his mind is 'going through them changes' and how he feels on the verge of committing a crime. This metaphorical language underscores the intensity of his emotional distress, suggesting that the loss of his lover has pushed him to the brink of sanity. The repetition of phrases like 'going outta my mind' and 'commit a big ole crime' emphasizes the cyclical nature of his torment, as he grapples with feelings of abandonment and confusion.

The song also explores the protagonist's sense of betrayal and loss. He reminisces about the good times he had with his lover, only to be left bewildered by her sudden departure. The lines 'Oh, my baby she left me the other day / And we were havin' a lot of fun' highlight the abruptness of the breakup and the emotional whiplash it caused. The repeated mention of running, hiding, and riding suggests a frantic attempt to escape the pain, yet he remains trapped in his own mind, unable to find solace.

Despite the overwhelming sadness and confusion, there is a recurring refrain of 'It's all right,' which can be interpreted as a coping mechanism. This phrase might signify a desperate attempt to convince himself that he will eventually be okay, even though he is currently engulfed in emotional turmoil. Buddy Miles' soulful delivery and the raw, bluesy instrumentation further amplify the song's themes of heartache and mental struggle, making 'Them Changes' a poignant exploration of the human condition in the face of love lost.