About the Song
Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Simple Man” transcends the realm of Southern rock, becoming a poignant ballad that resonates with anyone who’s ever grappled with life’s choices. Released in 1973, the song takes the form of a heartfelt conversation between a mother and her son, offering timeless wisdom that transcends generations.
The song’s inspiration is steeped in personal loss. Ronnie Van Zant, Lynyrd Skynyrd’s frontman, had recently lost his grandmother, while guitarist Gary Rossington was mourning his mother. This shared experience of grief channeled into a powerful message about the importance of cherishing family and staying true to one’s values.
“Simple Man” unfolds like a heartfelt letter. The lyrics, delivered with Ronnie Van Zant’s signature raspy vocals, paint a picture of a mother imparting wisdom to her son as he ventures out into the world. Lines like “Don’t need no mansions, just a little shack by the sea” and “Don’t fall for money, that green-eyed monster” advocate for a life of simplicity and integrity, prioritizing experiences and values over material wealth.
The song’s chorus is a powerful call to action: “Be a simple kind of man / Oh, be something you love and understand.” It’s a plea to stay grounded, to find fulfillment in passions, and to avoid the allure of fame and fortune at the expense of one’s core values.
“Simple Man” isn’t just about shunning wealth. It’s a cautionary tale about the pitfalls of chasing fleeting dreams. The lyrics, “Remember when you were young, you used to smile for nothin’ at all” imply a loss of innocence and a yearning for a simpler time. It’s a reminder to hold onto the things that truly matter: family, friends, and the simple joys of life.
Musically, the song complements the lyrical message perfectly. The opening features a gentle acoustic guitar melody that builds into a powerful rock ballad, showcasing the band’s signature blend of Southern rock and blues influences. The soaring guitar solos and driving rhythm section add depth and emotional weight to the mother’s message.
“Simple Man” remains a cornerstone of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s legacy. It’s a song that transcends genre and generation, offering timeless wisdom about living a life of meaning and staying true to oneself. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its raw emotional honesty, its relatable message, and its reminder that true happiness often lies in the most basic aspects of life.
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Lyrics: Simple Man
Mama told me when I was young
“Come sit beside me, my only son
And listen closely to what I say
And if you do this it’ll help you some sunny day”“Oh, take your time, don’t live too fast
Troubles will come and they will pass
You’ll find a woman and you’ll find love
And don’t forget, son, there is someone up above”“And be a simple kind of man
Be something you love and understand
Baby, be a simple kind of man
Oh, won’t you do this for me, son, if you can”“Forget your lust for the rich man’s gold
All that you need is in your soul
And you can do this, oh baby, if you try
All that I want for you, my son, is to be satisfied”“And be a simple kind of man
Oh, be something you love and understand
Baby, be a simple kind of man
Oh, won’t you do this for me, son, if you can”Oh, yes, I will
“Boy, don’t you worry, you’ll find yourself
Follow your heart and nothing else
And you can do this, oh baby, if you try
All that I want for you, my son, is to be satisfied”“And be a simple kind of man
Oh, be something you love and understand
Baby, be a simple kind of man
Oh, won’t you do this for me, son, if you can?”“Baby, be a simple, be a simple man
Oh, be something you love and understand
Baby, be a simple kind of simple man
Oh, won’t you do this for me, son, if you can?”