About the song
“Turn the Page”: A Glimpse into the Rock ‘n’ Roll Lifestyle
Released in 1973 as part of Bob Seger’s Back in ’72 album, “Turn the Page” has become an iconic anthem for rock musicians worldwide. This powerful ballad offers a raw and honest portrayal of the demanding and often isolating life of a touring musician. Seger’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of the relentless cycle of travel, performance, and the emotional toll it takes on the artist.
The song’s narrative follows a rock star as he navigates the challenges of life on the road. We hear about the loneliness and isolation he feels, the constant scrutiny from fans, and the physical and emotional exhaustion that comes with the demanding performance schedule. Seger’s lyrics are filled with vivid imagery, such as the “long and lonesome highway” and the “echoes from the amplifiers ringing in your head.” These images help to create a sense of atmosphere and draw the listener into the story.
“Turn the Page” is more than just a song about the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle; it’s a universal tale of human experience. The themes of loneliness, isolation, and the search for meaning are ones that resonate with people of all ages and backgrounds. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal.
Musically, “Turn the Page” is a classic rock masterpiece. Seger’s soulful vocals, combined with the driving rhythm and bluesy guitar riffs, create a powerful and emotional sound. The song’s arrangement is simple yet effective, allowing the lyrics and melody to take center stage.
One of the most striking aspects of “Turn the Page” is its honesty. Seger doesn’t shy away from portraying the darker side of the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle. He shows us that even the most successful musicians are human beings with their own struggles and insecurities. This raw and authentic quality is what makes the song so compelling.
“Turn the Page” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, but it’s Seger’s original version that remains the definitive recording. The song’s impact on popular culture is undeniable, and it continues to inspire new generations of musicians.
In conclusion, Bob Seger’s “Turn the Page” is a timeless classic that offers a unique and insightful look into the world of rock ‘n’ roll. Its powerful lyrics, combined with its infectious melody, have made it a beloved anthem for music fans around the world. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Seger’s music or simply appreciate a great rock song, “Turn the Page” is a must-listen.
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Lyrics
On a long and lonesome highway
East of Omaha
You can listen to the engine
Moanin’ out his one note song
You can think about the woman
Or the girl you knew the night before
But your thoughts will soon be wandering
The way they always do
When you’re ridin’ sixteen hours
And there’s nothin’ much to do
And you don’t feel much like ridin’
You just wish the trip was through
See here I am
On the road again
There I am
Up on the stage
Here I go
Playin’ star again
There I go
Turn the page
Well you walk into a restaurant
Strung out from the road
And you feel the eyes upon you
As you’re shakin’ off the cold
You pretend it doesn’t bother you
But you just want to explode
Most times you can’t hear ’em talk
Other times you can
All the same old cliches
“Is that a woman or a man?”
And you always seem outnumbered
You don’t dare make a stand
Here I am
On the road again
There I am
Up on the stage
Here I go
Playin’ star again
There I go
Turn the page
Out there in the spotlight
You’re a million miles away
Every ounce of energy
You try to give away
As the sweat pours out your body
Like the music that you play
Later in the evening
As you lie awake in bed
With the echoes from the amplifiers
Ringin’ in your head
You smoke the day’s last cigarette
Rememberin’ what she said
Here I am
On the road again
There I am
Up on the stage
Here I go
Playin’ star again
There I go
Turn the page
Here I am
On the road again
There I am
Up on the stage
Here I go
Playin’ star again
There I go
There I go