Song Meaning

Ruth Brown's "Here He Comes" isn't just a song; it's a defiant declaration of love for a man who, by conventional standards, might be considered a mess. The opening lines, a repeated announcement of his arrival, set the stage for a character study wrapped in rhythm and blues. He's unkempt ("needs a haircut, needs a shave"), seemingly unproductive ("won't work and he won't behave"), yet irresistibly magnetic to the singer. It's a portrait of attraction that transcends societal expectations. The repeated phrase "Loverman" isn't just a title, it's an assertion of his primary identity in her eyes. The lyrics hint at external judgment, specifically from her sister, who questions the relationship. This questioning serves to highlight the singer's unwavering devotion. Her retort, "If she'd ever been in his loving arms, she knows the reason why," is the crux of the song's meaning. It suggests a depth of connection that defies logic and societal disapproval. It's a love rooted not in superficial qualities but in an intimate, perhaps even primal, bond. The repeated lines about his "raggedy clothes" and "busted shoes" only reinforce the idea that her affection isn't based on material appearances. Ultimately, the song's meaning resides in its unapologetic embrace of unconventional love. It's a celebration of attraction that exists outside the boundaries of societal norms, a testament to the power of connection that transcends appearances and expectations. Ruth Brown delivers a powerful message through her vocal performance and the song's raw honesty, presenting a love that is both complicated and deeply fulfilling. "Here He Comes" is more than just a bluesy tune; it's a statement about the multifaceted nature of desire and the courage to love without reservation.