10cc is a British rock band known for their smart songwriting and catchy tunes. They gained popularity in the 1970s with hits such as I’m Not in Love and The Things We Do for Love.
Their music mixed pop, rock, and a bit of humor, making them stand out. The band members were also skilled at utilizing studio tricks to make their songs stand out.
They won two Ivor Novello Awards for their creative work and songwriting skills.
Their music has remained fresh over the years, and many fans still enjoy their songs today for their clever sound and strong emotional impact.
About the Song
The lyrics of I’m Not in Love show someone trying to hide their true feelings. Even though they say they’re not in love, their words and tone suggest otherwise.
The song captures the push and pull between what the person says and what they feel inside.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Release Date | March 11, 1975 |
| Album | Before During After – The Story Of 10cc |
| Writers | Eric Stewart, Graham Gouldman |
| Producer | 10cc |
Lyrics of I’m Not in Love
Instrumental Intro
Verse 1
I’m not in love, so don’t forget it
It’s just a silly phase I’m going through
And just because I call you up
Don’t get me wrong, don’t think you’ve got it made
Chorus
I’m not in love, no, no
(It’s because)
Verse 2
I like to see you, but then again
That doesn’t mean you mean that much to me
So if I call you, don’t make a fuss
Don’t tell your friends about the two of us
Chorus
I’m not in love, no, no
(It’s because)
Interlude
Be quiet, big boys don’t cry
Big boys don’t cry
Big boys don’t cry
Big boys don’t cry
Big boys don’t cry
Big boys don’t cry…
Verse 3
I keep your picture upon the wall
It hides a nasty stain that’s lying there
So don’t you ask me to give it back
I know you know it doesn’t mean that much to me
Chorus
I’m not in love, no, no
(It’s because)
Bridge
Ooh, you’ll wait a long time for me
Ooh, you’ll wait a long time
Ooh, you’ll wait a long time for me
Ooh, you’ll wait a long time
Verse 4
I’m not in love, so don’t forget it
It’s just a silly phase I’m going through
And just because I call you up
Don’t get me wrong, don’t think you’ve got it made, ooh
Chorus
I’m not in love
I’m not in love
Instrumental Outro
Meaning and Interpretation
I’m Not in Love, released by 10cc in 1975, is recognized as a thoughtful and emotionally profound song about love, denial, and the complexities of human emotions.
Although the lyrics repeatedly say I’m not in love, the tone, rich music, and carefully chosen words suggest the opposite, that the singer is perhaps painfully in love but finds it hard to express.
Key interpretations include:
- Denial and Emotional Conflict: The singer tries to convince themselves and others that they are not in love, but their words show stronger feelings.
- Complexity of Love: The song portrays love as a complex and sometimes confusing feeling, where saying I’m not in love is a way to understand true emotions.
- Loneliness and Longing: The soft music and multiple voices bring out feelings of being alone and longing for someone, highlighting the distance between what the singer feels and what they desire.
Similar Songs Like I’m Not in Love
If you enjoy I’m Not in Love by 10cc, you might also like these other songs by the same band:
- The Things We Do for Love: This song has a catchy tune and discusses the lengths people go to in relationships, blending pop and rock elements.
- I’m Mandy Fly Me: A song that starts softly and builds up, telling a story that mixes fantasy and reality with changing melodies.
- Art for Art’s Sake: With clever lyrics and a strong beat, this song reflects on the creation of art and its value in society.
- Rubber Bullets: Energetic song with a fast rhythm, it tells a story set in a prison, using vivid imagery and lively music.
Similar Artists Like 10cc
Like 10cc, these bands blend strong tunes and clever ideas, giving listeners a fresh and interesting musical experience:
- Electric Light Orchestra (ELO)
Genre: Rock, Pop Rock, Progressive Rock
Top Albums: Out of the Blue (1977), A New World Record (1976) - Supertramp
Genre: Progressive Rock, Pop Rock
Top Albums: Breakfast in America (1979), Crime of the Century (1974) - Godley & Creme
Genre: Rock, Pop Rock, Progressive Rock
Top Albums: Ismism (1981), Freeze Frame (1979) - Hotlegs
Genre: Rock, Pop Rock
Top Albums: Thinks: School Stinks (1971) - Todd Rundgren
Genre: Rock, Pop Rock, Progressive Rock
Top Albums: Something/Anything? (1972), Hermit of Mink Hollow (1978)
Frequently Asked Questions
What Role does Silence Play Between Certain Lines of I’m Not in Love?
Pauses add tension and make listeners focus more on what’s being said—or not said.
Could the Speaker be Talking to Themselves Instead?
Yes, it’s possible—it often sounds like a person working through thoughts alone.
Why do People Find I’m Not in Love so Relatable Today?
Because hiding emotions is still common, the song expresses this in a way that people can understand.
