Nico – I’m Not Sayin’

I’m Not Sayin’ was a song written and recorded by Gordon Lightfoot, that was released in early 1965.

“I’m Not Sayin'” is Nico’s debut single, released on the August 19th, 1965 on the Immediate Records label, which was co-founded by Andrew Loog Oldham, the manager of the Rolling Stones.

While Oldham is credited as producer, some accounts suggest Page produced and played guitar, with Jones also potentially involved. The song was a commercial failure, but is remembered for its unique blend of Nico’s vocals, the guitar work of Jones and Page, and its place in Nico’s early career before her work with the Velvet Underground.

‘I’m Not Saying’ was written by Canadian Gordon Lightfoot, after Dylan offered Nico ‘I Keep It With Mine’ which she rejected*. It was recorded in the same studio in London’s Denmark Street as the Stones used. It has perky vocals, is very girlish in tone and for the mid 60’s sounds incredibly modern.It is backed with acoustic guitars and a strong string arrangement with some solid bass and drums filling out the sound.

“I’m Not Sayin” – single by Nico.
Songwriter Godron Lightfoot.
Producer: Andrew Loog Oldham
Side B: “The Last Mile”
Songwriters: Andrew Loog Oldham and Jimmy Page
Producer: Jimmy Page for ANDESOUND.
Label: Immediate – IM 003