Simple Man (Lynyrd Skynyrd song)
| "Simple Man" | |
|---|---|
| Song by Lynyrd Skynyrd | |
| from the album (Pronounced 'Lĕh-'nérd 'Skin-'nérd) | |
| Released | 1973 |
| Recorded | April 30, 1973 at Studio One, Doraville, Georgia, U.S. |
| Genre | |
| Length |
|
| Label | Sounds of the South |
| Songwriter(s) | |
| Producer(s) | Al Kooper |
"Simple Man" is the last track on side one of Lynyrd Skynyrd's debut album (Pronounced 'Lĕh-'nérd 'Skin-'nérd).
The song is one of Lynyrd Skynyrd's most popular songs. Since the song became available for digital download, it has become Lynyrd Skynyrd's third best-selling digital song after "Sweet Home Alabama" and "Free Bird". It has sold 1,333,000 copies in the U.S. as of November 2013.[1]
Musical structure
"Simple Man" is written in the key of A minor/C major, though all guitars were tuned down a half step, effectively making it G# minor/B. The song begins with an acoustic arpeggiated chord sequence made up of the chords C major, G major and A minor (though with the tuned-down guitars, effective progression of B major, F# major and G# minor). This intro is accompanied by a bass line and cymbals before the drums and vocals come in for the verse. Lyrically the song is about a mother talking to her child about life, inspired by the passing of Ronnie Van Zant's grandmother.[2] The chorus of the song includes electric guitars imitating sections of the arpeggiated intro progression. The guitar solo is performed by Gary Rossington.
Personnel
Lynyrd Skynyrd
- Ronnie Van Zant – lead vocals
- Gary Rossington – lead guitar and guitar solo
- Allen Collins – rhythm and lead guitars
- Ed King – bass guitar
- Bob Burns – drums and percussion
- Billy Powell – keyboards
Additional personnel
- Al Kooper – organ
References
- ^ Grein, Paul (2013-11-27). "Chart Watch: Eminem Returns to #1, Gaga Sinks to #8". Yahoo Music. Retrieved November 27, 2013.
- ^ "Simple Man Songfacts". songfacts.com.