Sophisticated Lady
Chick Corea Christian McBride Jeff Ballard 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 Chick Corea is a moving ballad about a woman who seems to care too much about her social status and wealth, so much so that her personal identity and desires are being neglected or ignored. The lyrics address this woman to inform her to put on her blue jeans and start being herself, instead of getting caught up in maintaining her image. The songwriters describes this woman as a "sophisticated lady," which seems to be a euphemism for someone who is striving for a certain kind of lifestyle, which may be narrow-minded and limiting. The song is a plea for her to start living in her true identity instead of society's ideal American dream.
The lyrics criticize the woman’s facade of sophistication and the material obsessions that she's gained. The songwriter points out that she is "amazed" by the woman's cultural and educational achievements, yet she's lacking in original thought or creativity as a person. Her personality seems absent, dominated by her social background. The song's message is clear: be yourself and do not be afraid to break away from societal burdens and live life as you wish; love yourself authentically.
The song's author's performance of "Sophisticated Lady" has been featured in a variety of films and television shows and was often referred to as one of the highlights of his career. The song is chorded in C Major and is typically played on the piano, making it a jazz favorite among musicians.
Line by Line Meaning
Sophisticated lady tryin' to change my ways
A woman who thinks she's high-class is attempting to change my behavior
Just because you're caught in your social maze
Your obsession with your social status is clouding your judgment
I think it's 'bout time that you realize
You need to recognize the negative impact your wealth and power have had on you
Your money and your power's got you mesmerized
You're completely spellbound by the allure of your wealth and influence
Sophisticated lady put your blue jeans on
Stop trying to be someone you're not and be comfortable in your own skin
You're anybody's baby when your mama's gone
You're vulnerable and need someone to take care of you, regardless of your high social status
Educated lady with your college degree
You have acquired formal education and a degree from a university
Amazes me why you just can't see
I'm surprised that with all your education, you still lack insight
Learned everything from your books on the shelf
Your education is limited to what you learned from books, without applying it to real life
But no one ever taught you how to think for yourself
You don't have the ability to develop your own thoughts and ideas
Sophisticated lady take a lesson from me
Listen to my advice, even though you view yourself as superior
I can help you be what you want to be
I can assist you in becoming the person you truly want to be
Together we'll see many brighter days
By working together, we can experience a more positive future
If it takes forever, gonna change your ways
I am committed to helping you transform your behavior, no matter how long it takes
Pretty lady, get back
You need to step back and reevaluate yourself
Pretty lady, yea, sweet thing
Despite your flaws, you are still attractive and valuable as a person
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: DUKE ELLINGTON, IRVING MILLS, MITCHELL PARISH
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@alb2507
Chick Corea, a true genius who left us recently, will forever be remembered as an inspiration for all musicians.
@CFC-is2vw
Stellar recording. I watch the video regularly
@glenhorn9453
I could never get enough of you awesome band Chick, your awesome Bro. Putucci on the bass is awesome and cool, God bless him, your blessed and handsome drummer makes your band soar. Chick, you have created a masterpiece of honored and privileged musicians to be part of the most heavy and awesome jazz band I have ever heard. Continue to bless listeners always with your blessed and gifted musicians man. God bless you and your good-looking band. Take care!
@billymakesmusic
Chic Corea - You are a very blessed man to have this gift of music and add to that two incredibly gifted musicians to perform with. Your opening to this piece was stunning.
@cinziagennari693
Meraviglia
@pwc102
one of the best trios that has ever existed
@corybean8888
I need to go home and practice.
@ensinomusicalmp7329
Uma das coisas mais maravilhosas que ja pude contemplar na vida . Magestoso
@rcs_gabry2074
That’s Fantastic ❤️
@aperson6303
RIP