About the song
## Wasn’t Born to Follow: A Timeless Anthem of Individuality
The Byrds, a pioneering band in the 1960s folk-rock scene, released their iconic single “Wasn’t Born to Follow” in 1965. This song, with its catchy melody and thought-provoking lyrics, quickly became a cultural touchstone. It’s a testament to the band’s ability to blend traditional folk music with the energy and experimentation of rock and roll.
“Wasn’t Born to Follow” is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a declaration of independence and a refusal to conform to societal expectations. The lyrics, penned by Gene Clark, express a yearning for freedom and a rejection of authority. The opening lines, “I wasn’t born to follow, I was born to lead,” immediately set the tone for the song’s message of self-determination.
The song’s musical arrangement is equally impressive. The Byrds’ signature harmonies, combined with the driving rhythm and jangly guitar, create a sound that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking. The use of a twelve-string guitar adds a rich texture to the music, while the tambourine provides a percussive element that keeps the song moving forward.
“Wasn’t Born to Follow” has been interpreted in various ways over the years. Some listeners have seen it as a protest song against social injustice, while others have viewed it as a more personal exploration of individual identity. Regardless of its interpretation, the song’s message of nonconformity and self-reliance has resonated with audiences for decades.
The Byrds’ “Wasn’t Born to Follow” is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and entertain listeners of all ages. Its catchy melody, thought-provoking lyrics, and innovative musical arrangement have cemented its place in the annals of rock and roll history.
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Lyrics
No I’d rather go and journey
Where the diamond crescent’s glowing
And run across the valley
Beneath the sacred mountain
And wander through the forest
Where the trees have leaves of prisms
And break the light in colors
That no one know the names of
And when it’s time I’ll go and lay
Beside the legendary fountain
‘Till I see her form reflected
In its clear and jewelled waters
And if you think I’m ready
You may lead me to the chasm
Where the rivers of our visions
Flow into one another
I will want to dive beneath the white cascading waters
She may beg, she may plead, she may argue with her logic
And mention all the things I’ll lose
That really have no value in the end she will surely know
I wasn’t born to follow