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About the song
“Rock and Roll Lullaby” isn’t your typical bedtime ballad. This 1972 hit, performed by the soulful B. J. Thomas, takes a unique approach to comforting a child, blending the tenderness of a lullaby with the energy of rock and roll. Written by the legendary songwriting duo of Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, the song offers a glimpse into a unique upbringing.
The lyrics paint a picture of a single teenage mother raising a child amidst hardship. Despite the challenges, the mother soothes her crying child with a lullaby that transcends traditional melodies. The song’s refrain, “sha-na-na-na-na-na-na, it’ll be all right…sha-na-na-na-na-na-na-na, just hold on tight,” becomes a beacon of hope, sung with a love that surpasses the limitations of their circumstances.
“Rock and Roll Lullaby” is more than just a song; it’s a testament to the enduring power of love. The narrator, reflecting back on their childhood, acknowledges the lack of material comforts but remembers the love and comfort found in their mother’s rock and roll lullaby. The lyrics remind us that love, expressed in any form, can create a safe haven for a child.
The song’s production further emphasizes its unique character. The gentle vocals of B. J. Thomas are complemented by a blend of signature sounds from early rock and roll recordings. Duane Eddy’s iconic twangy guitar blends with the Beach Boys-inspired backing vocals, creating a soundscape that’s both nostalgic and comforting.
“Rock and Roll Lullaby” may not have topped the charts, but its influence extends beyond commercial success. The song’s unique blend of genres and its heartwarming message resonated with listeners worldwide. Its popularity in Brazil as a love theme for a soap opera highlights its versatility and ability to transcend cultural boundaries.
Today, “Rock and Roll Lullaby” remains a cherished classic. It’s a song that evokes feelings of nostalgia and reminds us of the enduring power of love and music to provide comfort and hope, even in the face of adversity. Whether sung by a parent or simply enjoyed for its unique sound, “Rock and Roll Lullaby” continues to soothe listeners of all ages.
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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