About the song
Dion’s “The Wanderer” is more than just a rock ‘n’ roll classic; it’s a timeless narrative of restless wanderlust and unyielding spirit. Penned by Ernie Maresca and originally released in 1961, this blues-infused ballad has captivated audiences for generations.
The song’s 12-bar blues structure, coupled with its evocative lyrics, paints a vivid picture of a man forever on the move, seeking solace in the open road. The narrative, while simple, is universal: a tale of unrequited love, longing, and the search for a place to call home. Yet, there’s a defiance in the wanderer’s spirit, a refusal to be tethered to one place or person.
Musically, “The Wanderer” is a departure from Dion’s earlier work with The Belmonts. The backing vocals, provided by the rock-oriented Del-Satins, give the song a grittier, more rebellious edge. The instrumental arrangement, featuring the soulful saxophones and the driving rhythm section, adds depth and complexity to the composition.
The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its relatable themes and its catchy melody. It has been covered by countless artists over the years, each adding their own unique interpretation to the classic. Despite the passage of time, “The Wanderer” continues to resonate with listeners, serving as a timeless anthem for those who feel the pull of the open road. Its inclusion in Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Songs of All Time is a testament to its cultural significance.”
Video
Lyrics
Oh well, I’m the type of guy who will never settle down
Where pretty girls are well, you know that I’m around
I kiss ’em and I love ’em ’cause to me they’re all the same
I hug ’em and I squeeze ’em, they don’t even know my name
They call me the wanderer
Yeah, the wanderer
I roam around, around, around
Oh well, there’s Flo on my left and there’s Mary on my right
And Janie is the girl with that I’ll be with tonight
And when she asks me which one I love the best?
I tear open my shirt, I got Rosie on my chest
‘Cause I’m a wanderer
Yeah, a wanderer
I roam around, around, around
Oh well, I roam from town to town
I go through life without a care
And I’m as happy as a clown
I with my two fists of iron and I’m going nowhere
I’m the type of guy that likes to roam around
I’m never in one place, I roam from town to town
And when I find myself fallin’ for some girl
I hop right into that car of mine and ride around the world
Yeah, I’m a wanderer
Yeah, a wanderer
I roam around, around, around
Oh yeah, I’m the type of guy that likes to roam around
I’m never in one place, I roam from town to town
Then when I find myself a-fallin’ for some girl
I hop right into that car of mine and drive around the world
‘Cause I’m a wanderer
Yeah, a wanderer
I roam around, around, around
‘Cause I’m a wanderer
Yeah, a wanderer
I roam around, around, around
‘Cause I’m a wanderer
Yeah, a wanderer