About The Song
“Simple Man” is a track from Lynyrd Skynyrd’s debut album (1973). Band members Ronnie Van Zant and Gary Rossington wrote the song, drawing inspiration from personal experiences, including the loss of their loved ones. The song encapsulates profound life advice from a mother to her son, emphasizing simplicity, staying true to oneself, and finding joy in life’s simple pleasures.
Despite initial doubts from their producer, Al Kooper, about its strength, “Simple Man” became a significant part of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s repertoire. After Van Zant’s untimely death in 1977, the song remains a poignant reflection of his legacy. The heartfelt lyrics, combined with Van Zant’s personal connection to the message, contribute to the song’s enduring popularity and emotional resonance with audiences.
Lyrics
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?"
admin