About the song
Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band’s “Like a Rock”: An Enduring Anthem
There’s something undeniably powerful about a song that can transport you back to a specific moment in time. Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band’s “Like a Rock” is one such song. Released in 1986, this classic rock anthem has stood the test of time, resonating with generations of listeners.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its relatable lyrics and anthemic chorus. Seger’s gritty vocals and the band’s driving rhythm section create a sound that is both familiar and invigorating. The song’s themes of perseverance, determination, and the passage of time have made it a favorite among fans of classic rock.
A Deeper Dive into the Lyrics
When we listen to “Like a Rock,” we’re not just hearing a song; we’re witnessing a story unfold. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who has faced life’s challenges head-on. From the opening lines, “Stood the bowline, sweating in the sun,” we get a sense of the hard work and dedication that have shaped the character of the narrator. The phrase “like a rock” is repeated throughout the song, serving as a metaphor for the narrator’s strength and resilience.
The song also touches on themes of aging and nostalgia. As the narrator looks back on his life, he reflects on the experiences that have shaped who he is. The line, “I was eighteen, didn’t have a kid,” evokes a sense of youthful innocence and carefree abandon. However, the song is not merely a nostalgic reverie; it is also a celebration of the wisdom and perspective that come with age.
The Legacy of “Like a Rock”
Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band’s “Like a Rock” has left an indelible mark on the world of rock music. The song has been featured in countless films, television shows, and commercials, further solidifying its status as a cultural touchstone. Additionally, the song has been covered by numerous artists, each putting their own unique spin on this timeless classic.
A Special Performance
The performance of “Like a Rock” you mentioned, from Huntington Center – Toledo, OH on 02/27/13 (Tour Opener), holds a special place in the hearts of Seger fans. As the tour opener for the Rock and Roll Never Forgets tour, this performance marked the beginning of a series of concerts that would showcase Seger’s enduring popularity. The energy and excitement captured in this performance serve as a testament to the power of live music and the deep connection between an artist and their audience.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Bob Seger or simply appreciate great rock music, “Like a Rock” is a song that is well worth revisiting. Its timeless message and infectious energy continue to resonate with listeners of all ages.
Video
Lyrics
Stood there boldly, sweatin’ in the Sun
Felt like a million, felt like number one
The height of summer, I’d never felt that strong
Like a rock
I was 18, didn’t have a care
Working for peanuts, not a dime to spare
But I was lean and solid everywhere
Like a rock
My hands were steady, my eyes were clear and bright
My walk had purpose, my steps were quick and light
And I held firmly to what I felt was right
Like a rock
Like a rock, I was strong as I could be
Like a rock, nothin’ ever got to me
Like a rock, I was something to see
Like a rock
And I stood arrow straight
Unencumbered by the weight of all these hustlers and their schemes
I stood proud, I stood tall
High above it all
I still believed in my dreams
20 years now, where’d they go?
20 years, I don’t know
I sit and I wonder sometimes
Where they’ve gone
And sometimes late at night
Oh, when I’m bathed in the firelight
The moon comes callin’ a ghostly white
And I recall, I recall
Like a rock, standin’ arrow straight
Like a rock, chargin’ from the gate
Like a rock, carryin’ the weight
Like a rock
Oh, like a rock, the sun upon my skin
Like a rock, hard against the wind
Like a rock, I see myself again
Like a rock
Oh, like a rock