About the song
“Rock and Roll Time” by Kris Kristofferson is a spirited and reflective track that captures the rebellious essence and carefree spirit of rock and roll music. Originally released as the title track of his 1974 album, the song celebrates the freedom and authenticity associated with the rock and roll lifestyle while also acknowledging the inevitable passage of time and the toll it takes on those who live it. It’s a blend of celebration and introspection, highlighting Kristofferson’s ability to infuse his music with both energy and thoughtful commentary.
The lyrics depict a scene of living life on the edge, embracing the joys and pains that come with a life devoted to music and the pursuit of personal freedom. Kristofferson sings about the relentless drive and passion that fuels musicians and the highs and lows of a life spent on the road. The song’s refrain, “It’s just rock and roll time,” serves as both an affirmation of the genre’s enduring appeal and a reminder of the fleeting nature of the moment. It’s a call to live fully in the present, savoring the music and the lifestyle that comes with it.
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Musically, “Rock and Roll Time” features a lively and upbeat arrangement, blending elements of country and rock with a touch of blues. The instrumentation, with its electric guitars, steady drumbeat, and vibrant harmonica, creates a sense of movement and excitement that perfectly matches the song’s theme. Kristofferson’s vocal performance is energetic and slightly rough-edged, conveying the grit and resilience of a seasoned performer who has seen it all but is still driven by the music.
The song also reflects on the personal cost of living life in the fast lane. While it celebrates the thrill and freedom of rock and roll, there is an underlying acknowledgment of the sacrifices and hardships that come with it. Kristofferson’s lyrics suggest a sense of nostalgia and perhaps a hint of weariness, recognizing that while the music and lifestyle are exhilarating, they can also be demanding and unforgiving.
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“Rock and Roll Time” ultimately captures the dual nature of the rock and roll experience—its intoxicating allure and the inevitable toll it takes. It’s a testament to the enduring power of music to inspire, uplift, and sustain, even as it reminds us of the impermanence of the moment and the importance of embracing it while it lasts.
This song showcases Kristofferson’s ability to blend celebration with reflection, creating a track that resonates with anyone who has ever been drawn to the liberating, yet sometimes destructive, power of rock and roll. It’s a reminder of why the music continues to captivate audiences across generations, embodying both the joy and the pain of living life on the edge.
Video
Lyrics
“Rock And Roll Time”
A threat to your future, you planned yesterday
Well, I fought for my freedom, some called it a crime
Convicted of running, on rock and roll time
I said rock and roll time, please take me away
To the whiskey and wine, of some better day
And if sometimes it seems, I’m falling behind
Remember I’m running, on rock and roll time
I’m judged in your airports, each time that I fly
I’ve been locked in your jailhouse, oh but I’m getting by
Just hoping that heaven, is happy and high
And everyone’s running, on rock and roll time
I said rock and roll time, please take me away
To the whiskey and wine, of some better day
And if sometimes it seems, I’m falling behind
Remember I’m running, on rock and roll time