About the song
Jimmy Buffett’s “Son of a Son of a Sailor” is a quintessential track that captures the spirit of adventure and the laid-back ethos of the singer-songwriter’s unique style. Released on April 1, 1978, this song is the title track from Buffett’s album of the same name, “Son of a Son of a Sailor”. As with many of Buffett’s works, this song is deeply infused with themes of nautical life and the personal journey, and it stands out as one of his most enduring and beloved pieces.
The meaning of “Son of a Son of a Sailor” revolves around the theme of generational legacy and the influence of family history on personal identity. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who follows in the seafaring footsteps of his ancestors, highlighting a deep connection to maritime tradition and the adventures that come with it. Buffett’s storytelling is vivid and rich, painting a picture of a life spent navigating both the literal and metaphorical seas. The chorus, with its catchy refrain, encapsulates the sense of pride and continuity that comes from carrying forward a family tradition.
Released as part of the album “Son of a Son of a Sailor”, the song contributed to the album’s success, which peaked at number 10 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album itself is a testament to Buffett’s blend of country, rock, and tropical influences, reflecting his signature “Gulf and Western” style. The success of the album solidified Buffett’s place in the music industry and showcased his talent for crafting songs that resonate with both personal and universal themes.
The social impact of “Son of a Son of a Sailor” is noteworthy. It helped cement Jimmy Buffett’s status as a cultural icon within the genre of “island escapism.” His music, characterized by its easy-going rhythms and narrative-driven lyrics, captured the imagination of listeners who yearned for a sense of adventure and relaxation. The song’s nautical themes and storytelling contribute to Buffett’s larger-than-life persona as the quintessential “parrothead” ambassador. It also reflects broader trends in the 1970s where music began to embrace more eclectic and personal forms of expression, blending different genres and storytelling traditions.
In summary, “Son of a Son of a Sailor” is more than just a hit song; it is a representation of Jimmy Buffett’s ability to intertwine personal storytelling with broader cultural themes. Its release marked a significant moment in Buffett’s career, affirming his role as a prominent figure in American music and offering listeners a glimpse into a life of maritime adventure and familial heritage. The song remains a beloved classic, reflecting the enduring appeal of Buffett’s unique musical and lyrical style.
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Lyrics
As the son of a son of a sailorI went out on the sea for adventureExpanding the view of the captain and crewLike a man just released from indentureAs a dreamer of dreams and a travelin’ manI have chalked up many a mileRead dozens of books about heroes and crooksAnd I learned much from both of their stylesSon of a son, son of a sonSon of a son of a sailorSon of a gun, load the last tonOne step ahead of the jailerNow away in the near futureSoutheast of disorderYou can shake the hand of the mango manAs he greats you at the borderAnd the lady she hails from TrinidadIsland of the spicesSalt for your meat, and cinnamon sweetAnd the rum is for all your good vicesHaul the sheet in as we ride on the windThat our forefathers harnessed before usHear the bells ring as the tight rigging singsIt’s a son of a gun of a chorusWhere it all ends I can’t fathom my friendsIf I knew I might toss out my anchorSo I cruise along always searchin’ for songsNot a lawyer a thief or a bankerBut a son of a son, son of a sonSon of a son of a sailorSon of a gun, load the last tonOne step ahead of the jailerI’m just a son of a son, son of a sonSon of a son of a sailorThe sea’s in my veins, my tradition remainsI’m just glad I don’t live in a trailer