About the song
“Old Time Rock & Roll” by Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band is a classic rock song that celebrates the nostalgia and simplicity of early rock and roll music.
Background:
- Release: The song was originally released in 1978 on Seger’s album “Stranger in Town.”
- Writing Credits: While primarily written by George Jackson and Thomas E. Jones III, Seger contributed uncredited lyrics and significantly shaped the final version.
- Popularity Boost: The song gained immense popularity after being featured in the iconic scene from the 1983 film “Risky Business,” where Tom Cruise lip-syncs and dances to it in his underwear.
Themes:
- Nostalgia: The song evokes a sense of longing for the past and the simpler times associated with the early days of rock and roll. The lyrics reference specific dance moves like the Jitterbug and classic rock and roll artists, further emphasizing this nostalgic feeling.
- Simplicity and Fun: The song celebrates the pure enjoyment and unpretentious nature of rock and roll music. It emphasizes the joy of dancing and letting loose, highlighting the music’s ability to transport listeners to a carefree state.
- Love for Music: At its core, the song is a declaration of love for rock and roll music. It expresses the idea that this music has a timeless quality and continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many.
Overall, “Old Time Rock & Roll” is a feel-good anthem that has resonated with audiences for decades. Its catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and association with a memorable film scene have solidified its place as a beloved classic rock song.
Video
Lyrics
Just take those old records off the shelf
I’ll sit and listen to ’em by myself
Today’s music ain’t got the same soul
I like that old-time rock ‘n’ roll
Don’t try to take me to a disco
You’ll never even get me out on the floor
In ten minutes I’ll be late for the door
I like that old-time rock ‘n’ roll
Still like that old-time rock ‘n’ roll
That kind of music just soothes my soul
I reminisce about the days of old
With that old-time rock ‘n’ roll
Won’t go to hear ’em play a tango
I’d rather hear some blues or funky old soul
There’s only one sure way to get me to go
Start playing old-time rock ‘n’ roll
Call me a relic, call me what you will
Say I’m old-fashioned, say I’m over the hill
Today’s music ain’t got the same soul
I like that old-time rock ‘n’ roll
Still like that old-time rock ‘n’ roll
That kind of music just soothes the soul
I reminisce about the days of old
With that old-time rock ‘n’ roll
Still like that old-time rock ‘n’ roll
That kind of music just soothes my soul
I reminisce about the days of old
With that old-time rock ‘n’ roll
Still like that old-time rock ‘n’ roll
That kind of music just soothes my soul
I reminisce about the days of old
With that old-time rock ‘n’ roll
Still like that old-time rock ‘n’ roll
That kind of music just soothes my soul
I reminisce about the days of old
With that old-time rock ‘n’ roll
Still like that old-time rock ‘n’ roll