B.J.Thomas- Rock And Roll Lullaby

Introduction:

Rock and Roll Lullaby by B.J. Thomas is not the original version of the song, but it is undeniably the most successful rendition. While the genre leans towards Pop, it has a unique twist that combines the soothing qualities of a lullaby with the energy of Rock and Roll. Released in 1972, the song became synonymous with B.J. Thomas, even surpassing his previous hits to become his signature song.

The origins of “Rock and Roll Lullaby” date back to 1935, written by the legendary songwriting team of Oscar Hammerstein II and Jerome Kern. It was originally intended for the Broadway musical Show Boat. However, the song never achieved widespread recognition until B.J. Thomas’s version hit the airwaves.

Steve Tyrell is credited as the producer for B.J. Thomas’s “Rock and Roll Lullaby.” Tyrell’s production choices were a key factor in the song’s success. The track begins with a simple but catchy rhythm section, and then incorporates subtle nods to classic Rock and Roll sounds. The background vocals, performed by The Blossoms, add a touch of sweetness to the melody. However, B.J. Thomas’s soulful delivery is the true star of the show. His voice is both powerful and tender, perfectly capturing the song’s unique blend of genres.

Lyrically, “Rock and Roll Lullaby” tells the story of a young mother singing to her child. The narrator reflects on their shared experiences, acknowledging the challenges of being a single parent. Despite the hardships, the song overflows with love and reassurance. The mother promises her child a safe and secure future, all delivered with a rock and roll twist.

“Rock and Roll Lullaby” resonated with listeners of all ages. It became a hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, peaking at number 15 in 1972. The song also topped the Easy Listening chart, showcasing its broad appeal. “Rock and Roll Lullaby” cemented B.J. Thomas’s place as a musical icon, and continues to be a beloved classic.

Video:

Lyrics:

She was just 16 and all alone
When I came to be
So we grew up together
My mama, child and me

Now things were bad and she was scared
But whenever I would cry
She’d calm my fears and dry my tears
With a rock and roll lullaby

And she’d sing sha na na na, na na, na na na
It’ll be all right
Sha na na na, na na, na na na, na
Just hold on tight

Sing it to me, Mama (sha na na na, na na, na na na)
Mama, Mama, Mama (it’ll be all right)
Sing it sweet and clear (sha na na na, na na, na na na)
Oh, Mama, let me hear that old rock and roll lullaby

Now we made it through the lonely days
But Lord, the nights were long
And we’d dream of better moments
When Mama sang her song

Now I can’t recall the words at all
It don’t make sense to try
‘Cause I just knew lots of love came through
In that rock and roll lullaby

And she’d sing sha na na na, na na, na na na
It’ll be all right
Sha na na na, na na, na na na, na
Just hold on tight

I can hear you, Mama (sha na na na, na na, na na na)
Mama, Mama (it’ll be all right)
Nothing moves my soul (sha na na na, na na, na na na)
Like the sound of a good, old rock and roll lullaby

It’ll be all right
Just hold on tight
Mama, Mama, Mama
Nothing moves my soul
Like the sound of a good, old rock and roll lullaby

It’ll be all right
(Sha na na na, na na, na na na)
Just hold on tight