"Can You Hear Me": John's Final Song
In 1998, before he knew he had lung cancer, John began writing Can You Hear Me? Opening with a characteristic declaration of love for children of all ages, this deeply personal ballad was shelved as John’s health declined.
In 1999, his diagnosis confirmed and his strength fading, John returned to the song again and again, determined to complete the message that had run through his entire body of work: “Creation doesn’t lie; you’re not a mistake.” By acknowledging, “sometimes it’s hard to talk,” John subtly references the stutter he once believed made him a ‘mistake.’
Despite his failing health, John persevered through multiple sessions in his Scatland Studios at home, recording the track in fragments. The final version was assembled from these takes.
Can You Hear Me? Stands as a pure expression of John’s encouragement of unconditional acceptance and self-worth. With lyrics reminding us of the power of love and living in the moment, this previously unreleased track is a fitting epilogue to Scatman’s World and a reminder of John’s enduring impact today. As the song fades, he asks, “Can you hear me?” In a world that still needs his words, the answer remains a resounding yes."
Thanks to Gina Waggot for making the release possible.
In 1998, before he knew he had lung cancer, John began writing Can You Hear Me? Opening with a characteristic declaration of love for children of all ages, this deeply personal ballad was shelved as John’s health declined.
In 1999, his diagnosis confirmed and his strength fading, John returned to the song again and again, determined to complete the message that had run through his entire body of work: “Creation doesn’t lie; you’re not a mistake.” By acknowledging, “sometimes it’s hard to talk,” John subtly references the stutter he once believed made him a ‘mistake.’
Despite his failing health, John persevered through multiple sessions in his Scatland Studios at home, recording the track in fragments. The final version was assembled from these takes.
Can You Hear Me? Stands as a pure expression of John’s encouragement of unconditional acceptance and self-worth. With lyrics reminding us of the power of love and living in the moment, this previously unreleased track is a fitting epilogue to Scatman’s World and a reminder of John’s enduring impact today. As the song fades, he asks, “Can you hear me?” In a world that still needs his words, the answer remains a resounding yes."
Thanks to Gina Waggot for making the release possible.
- Category
- Indie rock

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