After playing in the bands of Howard McGhee, Coleman Hawkins, Buddy DeFranco, Bud Powell, and George Wallington from 1948 to 1957, he formed his own group, the Wailers. Between 1957 and 1963 he toured with Donald Byrd, recorded with Miles Davis and John Coltrane, and performed with Thelonious Monk. In 1963 he moved to Europe, where he lived mainly in France and Belgium for 20 years, playing with local groups and with touring American musicians. He continued freelancing after returning to the United States, and in 1993 organized a second band called the Wailers.
He is the author of Notes and Tones, a book based on his interviews with other musicians.
Sophisticated Lady
Art Taylor Lyrics
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Just because you're caught in your social maze
I think it's 'bout time that you realize
Your money and your power's got you mesmerized
Pretty lady, get back
Pretty lady, yea
Sophisticated lady put your blue jeans on
Educated lady with your college degree
Amazes me why you just can't see
Learned everything from your books on the shelf
But no one ever taught you how to think for yourself
Pretty lady, get back
Pretty lady, yea, sweet thing
Sophisticated lady put your blue jeans on
You're anybody's baby when your mama's gone
Sophisticated lady take a lesson from me
I can help you be what you want to be
Together we'll see many brighter days
If it takes forever, gonna change your ways
Pretty lady, get back
Pretty lady, yea, sweet thing
Sophisticated lady put your blue jeans on
You're anybody's baby when your mama's gone
Sophisticated lady put your blue jeans on
You're anybody's baby when your mama's gone
Sophisticated lady put your blue jeans on
You're anybody's baby when your mama's gone
The song "Sophisticated Lady" by Art Taylor is a commentary on the pitfalls of social status and power. The lyrics address a "sophisticated lady" who is trying to change the singer's ways, but who is ultimately trapped in her own social maze. The song suggests that the woman is too caught up in her wealth and status, to the point where she has lost the ability to think for herself.
The song's chorus, "Sophisticated lady put your blue jeans on, you're anybody's baby when your mama's gone," can be interpreted as a call to break free from societal expectations and live a more authentic life. The singer is urging the woman to let go of her pretensions and embrace a more down-to-earth lifestyle.
Interestingly, the song features a mixture of contrasting musical styles. The melody is reminiscent of a 1920s-style jazz tune, while the lyrics address more modern topics. Additionally, the song features a percussion-heavy Latin rhythm in the verses, which contrasts with the more straightforward jazz feel of the chorus.
Line by Line Meaning
Sophisticated lady tryin' to change my ways
The top-notch lady is attempting to influence my actions
Just because you're caught in your social maze
Your position in society has restricted your freedom
I think it's 'bout time that you realize
It is high time for you to grasp the reality
Your money and your power's got you mesmerized
Your wealth and control has captivated you
Sophisticated lady put your blue jeans on
Classy lady, dress casually and be yourself
You're anybody's baby when your mama's gone
You are alone, and you are vulnerable
Educated lady with your college degree
Well-educated woman with a degree from college
Amazes me why you just can't see
It astonishes me as to why you cannot perceive the truth
Learned everything from your books on the shelf
You have learned everything from your textbooks
But no one ever taught you how to think for yourself
However, nobody instructed you on how to make your decisions
Sophisticated lady take a lesson from me
Classy lady, learn from my experience
I can help you be what you want to be
I can assist you in becoming your true self
Together we'll see many brighter days
Together, we will experience many more favorable times
If it takes forever, gonna change your ways
If it's necessary, we'll work together to alter your conduct
Sophisticated lady put your blue jeans on
Classy lady, dress casually and be yourself
You're anybody's baby when your mama's gone
You are alone, and you are vulnerable
Sophisticated lady put your blue jeans on
Classy lady, dress casually and be yourself
You're anybody's baby when your mama's gone
You are alone, and you are vulnerable
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Edward Kennedy Ellington, Irving Mills, Mitchell Parish
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
ManagerGuy1
GREAT! Loved it. Classic. Thanks for posting it!!!!
ManagerGuy1
Very nice!