About the song
In the realm of rock and roll, few artists have captured the essence of the human experience with the raw honesty and heartfelt emotion of Bob Seger. With a career spanning over five decades, Seger has crafted a discography rich with anthems that resonate deeply with listeners, chronicling the joys, struggles, and triumphs that define our lives. Among his most beloved and enduring creations is the 1976 power ballad “Come To Poppa”, a song that offers solace and reassurance in the face of life’s challenges.
“Come To Poppa” emerges from the depths of Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band’s critically acclaimed album “Night Moves”, a collection of songs that delves into the complexities of adulthood and the yearning for connection. The album’s title track, a nostalgic ode to youthful dreams and lost innocence, sets the stage for “Come To Poppa”, which explores the enduring power of familial bonds and the unwavering support of a father figure.
From the opening notes, “Come To Poppa” exudes an air of comforting warmth, with Seger’s weathered yet soulful vocals weaving a tapestry of vulnerability and strength. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world that can feel overwhelming and disorienting, where the sun refuses to shine, the moon offers no solace, and the stars seem to have vanished. Amidst this emotional landscape, Seger extends an invitation, a beacon of hope in the darkness: “If life gets hard to understand, and the whole thing is getting out of hand, Come to Poppa. Come see your Poppa.”
The chorus of “Come To Poppa” swells with a reassuring power, a testament to the unwavering love and support that a father can provide. Seger’s voice soars, echoing the sentiment of the lyrics: “If you need a pacifier, call me anytime. I’ll try to be your satisfier.” The imagery of a pacifier, a symbol of infantile comfort, juxtaposed with the role of a father figure, underscores the song’s central theme of seeking solace and guidance in the face of life’s challenges.
“Come To Poppa” transcends the boundaries of age and experience, speaking to the universal need for connection and reassurance. Whether it’s the literal embrace of a father or the metaphorical comfort of a trusted confidante, the song offers a lifeline in times of uncertainty and distress. Seger’s lyrics capture the essence of this sentiment, acknowledging the struggles that life throws our way while simultaneously offering a glimmer of hope: “If you feel like a horse blazin’ at the gate, call my number any time now. I’ll get you fixed.”
In the bridge of “Come To Poppa”, Seger shifts the focus from seeking comfort to offering strength, urging the listener to embrace their inner power and face challenges head-on. The lyrics resonate with a sense of empowerment: “Come see your power, just come to me. Come on, the Poppa, say come to me, come and say, ‘Poppa, yeah.'”
“Come To Poppa” concludes with a repetition of the chorus, reinforcing the message of unwavering support and reassurance. Seger’s voice fades out, leaving the listener enveloped in the comforting embrace of the song’s melody and lyrics, a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always someone willing to offer a helping hand and a listening ear.
With its blend of heartfelt emotion, relatable lyrics, and soaring melodies, “Come To Poppa” stands as a testament to Bob Seger’s enduring legacy as a songwriter and performer. The song’s message of comfort, strength, and the unwavering bond between a father and child continues to resonate with listeners worldwide, offering solace and reassurance in a world that can often feel overwhelming and uncertain.