About the song
B.J. Thomas’ timeless classic, “Rock and Roll Lullaby,” is a heartfelt tribute to the enduring power of music. Released in 1970, this sentimental ballad became a chart-topping hit, capturing the hearts of listeners with its nostalgic lyrics and soothing melody.
Thomas, known for his soulful voice and emotional delivery, paints a vivid picture of a young boy growing up in a world filled with the infectious rhythms of rock and roll. The song’s opening lines, “Remember when we were young and free,” evoke a sense of longing for simpler times, when music served as a universal language, connecting people across generations.
The lyrics delve into the profound impact of music on the protagonist’s life. It’s not just about the catchy tunes and energetic performances; it’s about the emotions, memories, and shared experiences that are intertwined with the songs. The chorus, “Rock and roll, lullaby, sing me a song to make me fly,” encapsulates the desire to escape the mundane and find solace in the rhythm and beat.
Thomas’ heartfelt vocals bring the song to life, infusing it with a sense of nostalgia and yearning. The arrangement is simple yet effective, featuring acoustic guitar, piano, and strings that create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The song’s timeless quality is evident in its ability to resonate with listeners of all ages, regardless of their musical preferences.
“Rock and Roll Lullaby” is more than just a popular song; it’s a testament to the enduring power of music to evoke emotions, create memories, and connect people on a deep level. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of B.J. Thomas or simply appreciate classic rock, this song is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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Lyrics
She was just 16 and all alone
When I came to be
So we grew up together
My mama, child and me
Now things were bad and she was scared
But whenever I would cry
She’d calm my fears and dry my tears
With a rock and roll lullaby
And she’d sing sha na na na, na na, na na na
It’ll be all right
Sha na na na, na na, na na na, na
Just hold on tight
Sing it to me, Mama (sha na na na, na na, na na na)
Mama, Mama, Mama (it’ll be all right)
Sing it sweet and clear (sha na na na, na na, na na na)
Oh, Mama, let me hear that old rock and roll lullaby
Now we made it through the lonely days
But Lord, the nights were long
And we’d dream of better moments
When Mama sang her song
Now I can’t recall the words at all
It don’t make sense to try
‘Cause I just knew lots of love came through
In that rock and roll lullaby
And she’d sing sha na na na, na na, na na na
It’ll be all right
Sha na na na, na na, na na na, na
Just hold on tight
I can hear you, Mama (sha na na na, na na, na na na)
Mama, Mama (it’ll be all right)
Nothing moves my soul (sha na na na, na na, na na na)
Like the sound of a good, old rock and roll lullaby
It’ll be all right
Just hold on tight
Mama, Mama, Mama
Nothing moves my soul
Like the sound of a good, old rock and roll lullaby
It’ll be all right
(Sha na na na, na na, na na na)
Just hold on tight