About the song
Neil Young’s “Rockin’ in the Free World” is a powerful anthem that captures the essence of political and social commentary in rock music. Released on November 14, 1989, as part of his album “Freedom”, the song remains one of Young’s most influential and enduring works.
The late 1980s was a time of significant political upheaval and change. The Berlin Wall fell, the Cold War was winding down, and global politics were in a state of flux. Against this backdrop, “Rockin’ in the Free World” emerged as a critical reflection on the American Dream and the state of the nation. Young uses stark imagery and biting lyrics to paint a picture of a country grappling with homelessness, drug addiction, and environmental degradation.
“Rockin’ in the Free World” is notable for its two distinct versions. The album opens with an acoustic version, setting a somber tone with its stripped-down arrangement. This version emphasizes the song’s poignant lyrics and Young’splaintive vocal delivery. In contrast, the electric version closes the album with a raw, energetic performance that channels Young’s signature grunge-inspired sound. The juxtaposition of these two versions underscores the duality of the song’s message – a mix of disillusionment and defiant hope.
The song’s chorus, “Keep on rockin’ in the free world,” is both a rallying cry and a bitterly ironic statement. It reflects Young’s skepticism about the true state of freedom and prosperity in America. The verses delve into specific social issues, such as the struggles of a single mother, the challenges faced by veterans, and the apathy towards environmental concerns. Each verse builds on the narrative of a society that, despite its claims of liberty and progress, is failing many of its citizens.
“Rockin’ in the Free World” had a profound impact on both the music industry and broader society. It quickly became an anthem for protest and has been covered by numerous artists, each bringing their unique take to Young’s powerful message. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to resonate with listeners across different generations and social contexts.
Young’s incisive lyrics and passionate performance in “Rockin’ in the Free World” continue to inspire and challenge audiences. It serves as a reminder of the power of music to address social issues and provoke thought. As relevant today as it was in 1989, “Rockin’ in the Free World” stands as a monumental piece of rock history, highlighting Neil Young’senduring legacy as a musician and social commentator.
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Lyrics
There’s colors on the streetRed, white and bluePeople shufflin’ their feetPeople sleepin’ in their shoesBut there’s a warnin’ sign on the road aheadThere’s a lot of people sayin’ we’d be better off deadDon’t feel like Satan, but I am to themSo I try to forget it any way I canKeep on rockin’ in the free worldKeep on rockin’ in the free worldKeep on rockin’ in the free worldKeep on rockin’ in the free worldI see a woman in the nightWith a baby in her handThere’s an old street light (near a garbage can)Near a garbage can (near a garbage can)And now she put the kid away and she’s gone to get a hitShe hates her life and what she’s done to itThere’s one more kid that’ll never go to schoolNever get to fall in love, never get to be coolKeep on rockin’ in the free worldKeep on rockin’ in the free worldKeep on rockin’ in the free worldKeep on rockin’ in the free worldWe got a thousand points of lightFor the homeless manWe got a kinder, gentler machine gun handWe got department stores and toilet paperGot Styrofoam boxes for the ozone layerGot a man of the people, says keep hope aliveGot fuel to burn, got roads to driveKeep on rockin’ in the free worldKeep on rockin’ in the free worldKeep on rockin’ in the free worldKeep on rockin’ in the free world