Sophisticated Lady
Duo Campion-Vachon (Ellington) 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
In the song "Sophisticated Lady" by Duo Campion-Vachon (Ellington), the lyrics portray a narrative about a woman referred to as a "sophisticated lady" who is attempting to change the ways of the singer. The singer suggests that the woman is deeply entrenched in her social status and material wealth, to the point where she seems entranced or controlled by it. The lyrics indicate a sense of disillusionment with the woman's focus on money and power, and a plea for her to wake up and realize there is more to life than societal expectations.
The singer also contrasts the image of the sophisticated lady with that of a more laid-back, approachable version of herself, suggesting that she can be more open and accessible if she lets go of the constraints of her social status. By urging her to put on her blue jeans and be "anybody's baby" when her mother is not around, the singer seems to advocate for a more carefree and authentic version of the sophisticated lady, free from societal pressures.
The lyrics also touch upon the woman's education and intelligence, noting that despite her college degree and book knowledge, she lacks the ability to think for herself. The singer questions why someone so educated would struggle to see beyond societal norms, hinting at the idea that true wisdom comes from independent thought and introspection rather than academic learning.
In the final verses, the singer offers to guide the sophisticated lady towards a more fulfilling and self-aware existence, promising brighter days ahead if she is willing to change her ways. The repetition of the phrase "put your blue jeans on" serves as a metaphor for shedding pretense and embracing authenticity, suggesting that the sophisticated lady can find freedom and individuality once she lets go of societal expectations. Overall, the song conveys a message of empowerment and transformation, encouraging the sophisticated lady to break free from social constraints and discover her true self.
Line by Line Meaning
Sophisticated lady tryin' to change my ways
A well-dressed woman is attempting to influence my behavior
Just because you're caught in your social maze
Simply because you are entangled in societal expectations
I think it's 'bout time that you realize
I believe it is high time for you to recognize
Your money and your power's got you mesmerized
Your wealth and influence have captivated you
Educated lady with your college degree
Well-educated woman with a university qualification
Amazes me why you just can't see
It astonishes me why you cannot perceive
Learned everything from your books on the shelf
Acquired all your knowledge from textbooks on the bookcase
But no one ever taught you how to think for yourself
Yet, no one ever instructed you on critical thinking
Sophisticated lady take a lesson from me
Elegant woman, heed my advice
I can help you be what you want to be
I have the ability to assist you in achieving your desires
Together we'll see many brighter days
Collectively, we will experience numerous optimistic moments
If it takes forever, gonna change your ways
Even if it requires an eternity, I will change your behavior
Sophisticated lady put your blue jeans on
Elegant woman, dress casually
You're anybody's baby when your mama's gone
You become vulnerable and dependent when left alone
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Edward Kennedy Ellington, Irving Mills, Mitchell Parish
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind