Roll Another Number
Neil Young & Crazy Horse Lyrics

The song Roll Another Number by Neil Young and Crazy Horse is a classic rock tune that captures the essence of a restless drifter on the road, searching for some kind of meaning or purpose in life. The opening lines paint a picture of a dark, lonely night, with the singer unable to see clearly enough to start the car. He's waiting for the morning sun to illuminate his surroundings, but in the meantime, he's contemplating his fate. There's a sense of danger lurking in the back of his mind, hinted at by the mention of flashing red lights that may be chasing him. Despite this, he's determined to make it home, a place of safety and comfort where he can rest his weary head.

The chorus of the song introduces the idea of rolling another number, which is a reference to smoking marijuana. This is a common theme in many of Neil Young's songs, reflecting his own love of the drug and its ability to help him relax, unwind, and connect with the world around him. The singer feels able to handle any load, which suggests that he's toughened up by experience and is used to dealing with the challenges that life throws at him. He's not afraid to take risks, and he's not afraid to face the unknown, because he has faith in himself and his own abilities.

The second verse of the song touches on some of the cultural touchstones of the time, referencing Woodstock and the hippie movement. The singer is no longer part of that world, but he remembers it fondly and longs for the sense of community and belonging that he once felt. He's also aware that he's come a long way since then, both geographically and emotionally, and that he's unlikely to ever return to that innocent, carefree time. The song ends on a note of optimism, with the singer finding solace in the sound of open-hearted people going down. This is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope, and that we can always find something to hold onto if we keep our hearts open and our minds clear.