Red House

Jimi Hendrix's 'Red House' is a classic blues number that delves into the themes of love, loss, and a sense of longing. The song opens with the singer describing a 'Red House' where his beloved used to stay. The repetition of this location sets the stage for a story of emotional attachment and personal history. The color red itself could symbolize love, passion, or even heartache.

As the song progresses, the singer reveals that he hasn't seen his baby in 'ninety nine and one half days,' a hyperbolic expression of time that emphasizes his feeling of separation and desire to reunite. However, upon his return, he finds that the key no longer unlocks the door, a metaphor for the change in his relationship status and the realization that his partner may no longer be there for him. The 'bad bad feeling' confirms his suspicion of a breakup, leaving him with a sense of betrayal and sorrow.

Despite the heartache, the singer finds solace in his guitar, a common theme in blues music where the instrument represents a reliable companion and a source of emotional expression. The final lines suggest a move towards acceptance and a hint of wry humor, as the singer considers the affection of his baby's sister as a consolation. This twist adds a layer of complexity to the song, as it touches on the resilience of the human spirit in the face of romantic disappointment.