About the song

“Simple Song of Freedom” by Bobby Darin is a song that resonates with a message of peace, freedom, and unity. Released in 1969, this song marked a significant departure from the style Bobby Darin was known for. Darin, who gained fame for his pop hits like “Mack the Knife” and “Beyond the Sea,” took a bold step into the world of folk and protest music with this track.

The song was written by Darin during a time of social upheaval in the United States, amid the Vietnam War and the civil rights movement. Its lyrics reflect the sentiments of a generation that was yearning for peace and change. The chorus, “We the people here don’t want a war,” is a powerful statement that speaks directly to the anti-war movement of the time. The simplicity of the song’s melody and lyrics is what makes it so compelling. It doesn’t rely on complex musical arrangements or poetic flourishes; instead, it uses straightforward language and a gentle tune to deliver its message.

Darin’s performance of “Simple Song of Freedom” is sincere and heartfelt, conveying his deep belief in the message he was sharing. He was not just a pop star but an artist who used his platform to speak out against injustice and to call for a better world. This song, though not as commercially successful as some of his other hits, remains a significant part of his legacy.

What makes “Simple Song of Freedom” particularly special is its timelessness. The themes of peace, freedom, and unity are as relevant today as they were in 1969. The song serves as a reminder that music can be a powerful tool for social change and that sometimes, the simplest messages are the most profound. Bobby Darin’s “Simple Song of Freedom” is more than just a song; it’s a call to action and a reflection of the enduring human desire for a world where everyone can live in peace and freedom.

Video

Lyrics

Come and sing a simple song of freedom
Sing it like you’ve never sung before
Let it fill the air
Tell the people everywhere
We, the people here, don’t want a war
Hey there, Mister Black Man can you hear me?
I don’t want your diamonds or your game
I do want to be someone known to you as me
And I will bet my life you want the same
Come and sing a simple song of freedom
Sing it like you’ve never sung before
Let it fill the air
Tell the people everywhere
We, the people here, don’t want a war
Seven hundred million are enlisted
Most of what you read, most of what you read, is made of lies
But speaking one to one, ain’t it everybody’s son
To wake to in the morning when we rise?
Come and sing a simple song of freedom
Sing it like you’ve never sung, never sung, before
Let it fill the air
Tell the people everywhere
We, the people here, don’t want a war
No doubt some folks enjoy doin’ battle
Like presidents, prime ministers and kings
So let’s all build them shelves so they can fight among themselves
And leave us be those who want to sing
Come and sing a simple song of freedom
Sing it like you’ve never, ever, sung before
Let it fill the air
Tell the people everywhere
We, the people here, don’t want a war
Come and sing a simple song of freedom
Sing it like you’ve never, ever, sung before
Speaking one to one
Ain’t it everybody’s son
To wake to in the morning when we rise
Speaking one to one
Ain’t it everybody’s son
To wake to in the morning when we rise

By Tam Le