About the song
“I Got a Name” is a poignant and emblematic track from the American singer-songwriter Jim Croce, recorded in 1973. The song, penned by lyricist Norman Gimbel and composer Charles Fox, stands out as Croce’s first posthumous single, released a day after his tragic death in a plane crash on September 20, 1973. Despite its somber release, “I Got a Name” achieved notable success, peaking at No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and spending an impressive 17 weeks on the chart. It also climbed to No. 3 on the Cash Box Top 100, underscoring its widespread appeal.
The song initially gained prominence as the theme for the film *The Last American Hero*, released in July 1973, and has since found its way into various films and media, including *The Ice Storm*, *Invincible*, *Django Unchained*, *Logan*, and *The Lego Ninjago Movie*. Its lasting resonance in popular culture highlights its broad impact and enduring relevance.
“I Got a Name” explores themes of identity, pride, and self-worth through its lyrics. The narrator reflects on his personal journey, expressing pride in his name and his place in the world. He compares his identity to natural elements, such as wind and birds, suggesting that, like these entities, he has a song to sing and a dream to follow. The song’s chorus emphasizes a resolute sense of forward momentum, with the narrator joyfully proclaiming that he is “moving and rolling” down life’s highway, determined to live fully and not let life pass him by.
While Croce was known for composing his own material, “I Got a Name” was an exception. Croce’s choice to record it was inspired by a personal connection—his father had passed away before witnessing his son’s success, and Croce saw the song as a tribute to the dreams and hopes his father had for him.
Critical reception of the song was positive. Billboard praised its grandiose lyrical and melodic content, contrasting it with Croce’s usual material, and Cash Box noted Croce’s performance as both funky and evocative. Record World appreciated the song as a fitting representation of Croce’s talent, and Willie Freckleton of the Irvine Herald described it as a fine tribute to Croce’s legacy.
Live performances of “I Got a Name” were featured on several platforms, including The Midnight Special and The Helen Reddy Show. The song’s versatile appeal is evident in its use in commercials, TV shows, and movies over the decades, cementing its place as a significant part of Jim Croce’s musical legacy.
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Lyrics
Like the pine trees lining the winding road
I’ve got a name
I’ve got a name
Like the singing bird and the croaking toad
I’ve got a name
I’ve got a name
And I carry it with me like my daddy did
But I’m living the dream that he kept hid
Moving me down the highway
Rolling me down the highway
Moving ahead so life won’t pass me by
Like the North wind whistling down the sky
I’ve got a song
I’ve got a song
Like the whip-poor-will and the babies crying
I’ve got a song
I’ve got a song
And I carry it with me and I sing it proud
If it gets me nowhere, I’ll go there proud
Moving me down the highway
Rolling me down the highway
Moving ahead so life won’t pass me by
And I’m gonna go there free
Like the fool I am and I’ll always be
I’ve got a dream
I’ve got a dream
They can change their minds but they can’t change me
I’ve got a dream
I’ve got a dream
I know I could share it if you want me to
If your going my way I’ll go with you
Moving me down the highway
Rolling me down the highway
Moving ahead so life won’t pass me by
Moving me down the highway
Rolling me down the highway
Moving ahead so life won’t pass me by