Now Is the Time
Rod St. James Lyrics
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(Now!) now is the time we should unite
We don't need revolution
We just need to open our eyes
Revolution is no solution
We ought to realize (now!)
Now is the time to see the light
Looking back to see the future
And to rid the age of nuclear
Now is the time to set things right
Take a look around
What a mess we're living in!
God created love
And man, huh, he created sin
Taking from the earth
But never ever putting in
Now what becomes of men when he has used up everything?
Tell me! (now!)
Now is the time to set things right
(Now!) now is the time we should unite
We don't need revolution
We just need to open our eyes
Revolution is no solution
We ought to realize
(Now!) now is the time to set things right
(Now!) now is the time to see the light
Looking back to see the future
And to rid the age of nuclear
Now is the time to set things right
(Now!) now is the time to set things right
(Now!) now is the time we should unite
We don't need revolutions
We just need to open our eyes
Revolution is no solution
We ought to realize
(Now!) now is the time to set things right (now is the time)
(Now!) now is the time to see the light
Looking back to see the future
In the song "Now Is The Time" by Rod St. James, the lyrics talk about the rise of rock 'n roll music and how it has become an important part of society. The first verse speaks about how even parents acknowledge that rock 'n roll has become music, and how even babies are listening to Bo Diddley's music. The lyrics also refer to a wolfman's howl which could be a reference to the popular radio DJ Wolfman Jack. The second verse brings up the historical context of colonization, slavery, and the exploitation of the black community. The lyrics speak about how the white man arrived on ships, enslaved the black men and women, and took their land and resources for their own benefit. The chorus warns the listener to watch out for the invader who will come for your gold and your soul.
The song highlights how rock 'n roll music became a symbol of resistance and rebellion for many young people at the time. It became a way for them to express themselves and break away from the conservative values of their parents' generation. The lyrics speak about how rock 'n roll had become the music of a second generation, spreading across the nation, and how it was now widely accepted by most people. The final chorus emphasizes how rock 'n roll is music, now and how even parents and elders recognize its importance.
This song was released in 1971, during a time when rock 'n roll music was at its peak of popularity. It became an anthem for the youth culture of the time and reflected the changing societal values of that era. Rod St. James was not a well-known musician and this was his only significant hit. However, the song gained a lot of popularity and was covered by other artists in the following years.
Line by Line Meaning
Mama knows and papa knows
Even parents are aware of the fact that rock 'n roll has become a popular form of music.
That rock 'n roll is music now.
Rock 'n roll has evolved into a genre of music that is enjoyed and embraced by many people.
Baby's been cutting his teeth on Bo Diddley's,
Even young children have been exposed to and are growing up listening to rock 'n roll legends like Bo Diddley.
I'm a man, man, Listen to the Wolfman howl.
The Wolfman's powerful and captivating voice can be heard on the radio, and the singer identifies with this feeling of being empowered and in control.
See the white man sailing his ship up on the sea,
The artist is acknowledging and pointing out the historical context of white explorers and conquerors sailing around the world and imposing their will on others.
Watch the white man shackle the black man to a tree.
This line refers to the heinous and cruel act of slavery, which was used to subjugate and exploit black people for the benefit of white people.
To the invader go the fruits of war,
The victor of a war is often the one who gets to reap the benefits of the conflict, such as resources and territory to control.
He misses home and his boots are sore.
Even the conqueror/enemy can be characterized in a sympathetic way, since they may be homesick and tired from their travels and battles.
He has not got no roots no more,
The conqueror/enemy is essentially rootless, since they are invading and taking over land that is not originally theirs.
He comes for your gold,
The conqueror/enemy may be motivated by greed and the desire to acquire wealth and riches.
Watch out for your soul.
This warning could be interpreted in many ways, but it is generally urging listeners to be wary of those who would exploit or harm them.
Cause tennis shoes, and rhythm and blues Are second generation All across the nation, now,
Rock 'n roll music has spread throughout the country and is popular among younger generations who also enjoy other modern elements of culture like tennis shoes and rhythm and blues music.
And mama knows, Papa too rock 'n roll is music, Rock 'n roll is music, now.
This sentiment is repeated again at the end of the song, emphasizing the widespread recognition that rock 'n roll has become a legitimate and important form of music.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: Biddu
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