Meaning of "Music Is My Mistress" by Stu Larsen

The song explores the speaker's deep connection and obsession with music, personifying it as a mistress. The repeated line "Music is my mistress and she keeps the girls away" suggests that the artist's devotion to music hinders intimate relationships. This can be interpreted in several ways. Firstly, it could be seen as a reflection of the sacrifices and dedication required to pursue a career in music, often resulting in less time and energy available for romance. Secondly, it may signify the addictive and all-consuming nature of artistic pursuits, with the need for constant creativity and inspiration overshadowing other aspects of life. The speaker's desire to protect and prioritize the relationship with music is further emphasized by the line "I don't need nobody else to tell me what to hear." This implies that the speaker relies solely on music for emotional support, guidance, and fulfillment.

The lyrics also touch on the speaker's struggle to connect with others due to their overwhelming attachment to music. The line "They always seem to come along but never seem to say" suggests that potential romantic partners are drawn to the speaker, but are unable to express their feelings or establish a meaningful connection due to the speaker's preoccupation with music. The line "Someone's sleeping underneath my bed, I don't know her name, I wonder who's to blame" introduces a sense of mystery and longing, hinting at missed opportunities for intimate relationships.

The overall theme of the song revolves around the tension between the speaker's devotion to music and their desire for personal connections. It explores the sacrifices and challenges that can arise when pursuing one's passion and the impact it can have on relationships. The lyrics evoke a sense of loneliness and longing, as the speaker struggles to find harmony between their love for music and their yearning for human connection.