The Rishi Kesh Song
John Lennon · John Lennon Anthology [1998]
All you need to do
is to say this little word,
I know it sounds absurd
but it's true.
The magic's in the mantra,
we'll give you all the answers
so swallow this,
that's all you've got to do.
Ev'rything you need is here,
and ev'rything that's not here,
is not there.
And yet there's something missing
in this god almighty plan,
could it be you need a woman?
Ah now, all you need to do
is to say this little word,
I know it sounds absurd
but it's true.
The magic's in the mantra,
we'll give you all the answers
so swallow this,
that's all you've got to do.
But still...
You're so suicidal,
something is wrong.
This can't be it
something is wrong.
Uuh -
Something is wrong,
something is wrong,
something is wrong.
The Rishi Kesh Song
John Lennon's "The Rishi Kesh Song" stands as a poignant example of his early folk-rock output, recorded during the formative years of his solo career. Released on the "John Lennon Anthology [1998]" compilation, the track reflects the introspective and socially conscious themes that would later define his work with The Beatles and his solo discography. The song captures Lennon's ability to blend acoustic instrumentation with lyrical depth, exploring personal and universal struggles without relying on complex production. As part of his broader catalog of folk and rock recordings, this piece highlights his commitment to storytelling through music, maintaining the raw emotional honesty characteristic of his early solo efforts. It serves as a testament to his evolution as an artist, bridging the gap between his collaborative period and his more experimental solo direction.