About the song
Bob Seger’s “Shame on the Moon”: A Timeless Ballad of Heartbreak
Released in 1982 as part of the album The Distance, Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band’s “Shame on the Moon” quickly became a fan favorite, showcasing Seger’s ability to capture the complexities of love and loss with heartfelt lyrics and a soulful melody. This timeless ballad, penned by Rodney Crowell, offers a poignant reflection on the bittersweet nature of romantic longing.
Seger’s velvety vocals, combined with the band’s signature rock sound, create a rich and textured atmosphere that draws listeners in. The song’s opening lines, “Well, I woke up this morning with a hangover and a heart full of stone,” immediately establish a sense of melancholy and disillusionment. The narrator, haunted by the memories of a past love, finds solace in the night sky and the company of the moon.
The chorus, “Shame on the moon for making me want something I can’t have,” is a powerful expression of frustration and longing. The moon, often seen as a symbol of romance and hope, is here blamed for the narrator’s heartache. This paradoxical image highlights the conflicting emotions that accompany unrequited love.
Seger’s ability to convey raw emotion through his lyrics is one of the reasons why “Shame on the Moon” has endured for so many years. The song’s themes of heartbreak, longing, and the passage of time are universally relatable, resonating with listeners of all ages.
Musically, the track is characterized by a simple yet effective arrangement. Seger’s acoustic guitar provides a gentle foundation for the song, while the band’s subtle instrumentation adds depth and texture. The combination of acoustic and electric guitars, along with a steady drumbeat, creates a driving rhythm that propels the song forward.
“Shame on the Moon” is a testament to Seger’s songwriting prowess and his ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless quality and its ability to capture the essence of the human experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Bob Seger or simply appreciate a well-crafted ballad, “Shame on the Moon” is a must-listen.
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Lyrics
Until you’ve been beside a man
You don’t know what he wants
You don’t know if he cries at night
You don’t know if he don’t
Where nothing comes easy, old nightmares are real
Until you’ve been beside a man
You don’t know how he feels
Once inside a woman’s heart
A man must keep his head
Heaven opens up the door
Where angels fear to tread
Some men go crazy, some men go slow
Some men go just where they want
Some men never go
Oh, blame it on midnight
Ooh, shame on the moon
Everywhere is all around
Comfort in the crowd
Stranger’s faces all round
Laughing right out loud
Hey, watch where you’re goin’
Step light on old toes
Until you’ve been beside a man
You don’t know who he knows
Oh, blame it on midnight
Ooh, shame on the moon
Oh, blame it on midnight
Ooh, shame on the moon
Blame it on midnight
You can blame it on midnight
Shame, shame, shame, shame on the moon
Blame it on midnight
Shame on the moon