About the song
“Gerry Rafferty’s ‘Baker Street’ is a timeless anthem that continues to resonate with listeners across generations. Released in 1978 as part of his album ‘City to City,’ the song quickly became an iconic piece of pop rock history. Written by Rafferty himself, ‘Baker Street’ showcases his distinctive songwriting prowess and his ability to craft melodies that linger in the mind long after the music stops.
The track features Rafferty’s signature raspy vocals and is distinguished by its memorable saxophone riff, performed by renowned saxophonist Raphael Ravenscroft. This riff not only became instantly recognizable but also solidified ‘Baker Street’ as a classic of its era. The song’s lyrics delve into themes of urban isolation and longing, set against the backdrop of the bustling Baker Street in London.
Upon its release, ‘Baker Street’ soared to the upper echelons of music charts worldwide. In the United States, it peaked at number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, while in the UK, it climbed to number 3 on the UK Singles Chart. Its success propelled the album ‘City to City’ to multi-platinum status, cementing Gerry Rafferty’s reputation as a formidable singer-songwriter.
Beyond its commercial success, ‘Baker Street’ has endured as a beloved classic, frequently featured in films, TV shows, and advertisements, ensuring its continued relevance in popular culture. Its melancholic yet hopeful tone continues to resonate with listeners, making it a staple on classic rock radio stations and playlists.
Gerry Rafferty, born in Scotland, had a career marked by several notable hits, but ‘Baker Street’ remains his most enduring legacy. His ability to capture the essence of city life and human emotions in a song has left an indelible mark on music history, solidifying ‘Baker Street’ as a timeless piece that transcends generations.”
Video
Lyrics
Winding your way down on Baker Street
Light in your head and dead on your feet
Well, another crazy day
You’ll drink the night away
And forget about ev’rything
This city desert makes you feel so cold
It’s got so many people, but it’s got no soul
And it’s taken you so long
To find out you were wrong
When you thought it held everything
You used to think that it was so easy
You used to say that it was so easy
But you’re tryin’, you’re tryin’ now
Another year and then you’d be happy
Just one more year and then you’d be happy
But you’re cryin’, you’re cryin’ now
Way down the street there’s a light in his place
He opens the door, he’s got that look on his face
And he asks you where you’ve been
You tell him who you’ve seen
And you talk about anything
He’s got this dream about buying some land
He’s gonna give up the booze and the one-night stands
And then he’ll settle down
In some quiet little town
And forget about ev’rything
But you know he’ll always keep movin’
You know he’s never gonna stop movin’
‘Cause he’s rollin’, he’s the rolling stone
When you wake up, it’s a new mornin’
The sun is shinin’, it’s a new mornin’
You’re goin’, you’re goin’ home