The True Meaning of Alone Again (Naturally) By Gilbert O'Sullivan

51 years ago today, Irish singer-songwriter Gilbert O'Sullivan released his iconic single Alone Again, Naturally, which tells a rather sad tale of a lonely man being left at the altar and then telling the listener about of his parents. The song connected with listeners on various levels: the downtrodden could commiserate with the singer, and the lucky ones who were not in this position were reminded of their good fortune. It sold 2 million copies, spent six weeks at the summit in America and earned him three Grammy Award nominations. It was the second best-selling single of the year in America behind Don McLean's "American Pie." Theories about the biographical meanings of the song have been around ever since, so today we take a look at the story behind one of the most famous songs of the 70s.

[@dpevjen]

I am 70 years old now and I still love this song. When I was 18 in the U.S. Air Force basic training I first heard this haunting song. Our squadron group of about 50 guys had been marched over to the canteen (a store that sells candy bars, cigarettes, etc.). There, over the loudspeaker, many songs were played. Of those songs, I only remember this one. Nowadays, every time I hear this song I am instantly transported back.

[@aidandalton7404]

He is doing concerts here in Ireland 🇮🇪 in September 2024. He is 77 years old now. I have every album he recorded (19). I'm 49 yrs old. He's a true music legend.

[@MrJazzBond]

The more sad thing is learning that Gilbert's actual conditions were more contrast than the lyrics. His father seemed not love his mother so much and he hated his father too.

[@susanbrennan5511]

When my husband soulmate of 24 years passed suddenly this was my song. 14 years later it’s still my song because after he left I was alone again. Naturally.

[@robertbehling5918]

I am 70 years old, and a huge Beatles, Led Zeppelin, etc. fan. I love "Alone Again, Naturally".

[@margaret7688]

I would sing this song and my Mother would ask me if I was alright. I liked O'Sullivan. I miss the days where songs actually had lyrics.

[@sheriamerigo6205]

My husband just passed away last month. Very unexpectedly, right in front of our lanai while taking the dog for a walk while I was sleeping. I'll be 70 this year. No family, no friends. I'm so totally alone.

[@pleasantdaddy]

I’m 58 years old and I remember hearing this song first time around! I’ve always liked this song. In fact, I’m actually learning how to play it right now on the guitar.

[@bjbell52]

As I mentioned in another post about Gilbert - he was taught to play piano by his best friend Rick Davies who went on to form the group Supertramp.

[@muhabamin8129]

We love Gilbert O'Sullivan the pure Irishman is from the elite of American society 🇺🇲🇮🇪🙏🌷

[@annarodriguez9868]

Our youngest child was born in 1971 and even though he was just a few months old when this song was playing on the radio he always stopped playing and quietly listened until the song was over.

[@jenatsky]

I’m 71 and recall vividly when this song was released. It was comforting at a time when I needed it most.

[@davidoverton4030]

Never thought too much about this classic O'Sullivan song until 2020 when my own wonderful mother passed away. And, yes, I cried & cried all day, and have felt alone ever since. Thank you, Gilbert. ❤

[@rodneygarcia9621]

One of the greatest songs in “my life”. I know that O’Sullivan did not write this ballad as auto biographical. Just a beautiful sad story by a very creative young man. I used to sing it to myself on my way to school, I actually remembered all the words. I thought I was a nerdy kid by being a O’Sullivan fan, when many kids of my day liked Led Zep or Soul music. I still love his music today & don’t mind being nerdy.

[@treasuremuch9185]

What a heartbreaking song. Brings me to tears every time. Takes me back.

[@elizabethsamonte9958]

Thanks for sharing the hidden scenario revolving around this epic jazzy melancholic song of the great Gilbert O'Sullivan...one fave in my Playlist from the 70's

[@emilydelcastillo4351]

I still listen to the song, Alone Again on a regular basis. In fact, that's how I found this video. Thank you for the backstory and history behind this classic.

[@brianruppert1071]

I was ten when it came out. A remarkable achievement for a young man of 21.

[@SomeBuddy777]

Deep... Reveals the raw emotions we try to stifle till they smother us, again.

[@tomdaoust]

Excellent program. Great documentation. I love the song you highlight and I love this O’Sullivan. His cute song Claire is another of my favorites. You told the story of a struggling young songwriter working hard and achieving gigantic success. A very happy story. Thanks. Great job.