About The Song
ommy James & The Shondells’ “Crystal Blue Persuasion” is a psychedelic rock anthem that captured the spirit of a changing world in 1968. More than just a catchy tune, the song became a cultural touchstone, reflecting the optimism and idealism of the late 1960s.
Background
- Composition and Release: Written by Eddie Gray, Tommy James, and Mike Vale, “Crystal Blue Persuasion” was released in 1968 on Roulette Records. It appeared on the band’s album “Crimson & Clover,” but quickly eclipsed the title track in popularity.
- Tommy James & The Shondells: Formed in Michigan in the mid-1960s, the band rose to fame with garage rock hits like “Hanky Panky” and “Mony Mony.” By 1968, they were experimenting with psychedelic sounds and introspective lyrics, evident in “Crystal Blue Persuasion.”
Musical Style
- Psychedelic Rock: The song incorporates several elements of psychedelic rock, a genre popular in the late 1960s. Distorted guitars, swirling organ melodies, and a driving beat create a hypnotic atmosphere.
- Garage Rock Roots: Despite the psychedelic flourishes, the song retains the band’s garage rock energy. The raw vocals and tight rhythm section provide a foundation for the swirling soundscapes.
- Catchy Melody: A simple yet memorable melody is a hallmark of “Crystal Blue Persuasion.” The “crystal blue” refrain sticks in the listener’s head, contributing to the song’s enduring appeal.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Crystal Blue Persuasion” are open to interpretation, but they generally convey a message of hope and change. Here’s a breakdown of some key themes:
- New Day Dawning: The opening verse paints a picture of a new day rising, symbolizing a new era. Lines like “A new day is comin’ people are changin'” reflect the optimism of the late 1960s, a time of social and cultural upheaval.
- Crystal Blue Persuasion: The title phrase itself is enigmatic. Some interpret it as a reference to psychedelic drugs like LSD, which were prevalent at the time. Others see it as a metaphor for a higher power, spiritual awakening, or simply a feeling of positive change.
- Love and Peace: The song emphasizes love as the answer to problems. Lines like “Love, love is the answer and that’s all right” resonate with the counterculture movement’s ideals of peace and unity.
- Hope for the Future: The final verse expresses hope for a future filled with peace and brotherhood. The lyrics envision a world where “every green field and every town” experiences harmony.
Cultural Impact
“Crystal Blue Persuasion” transcended its status as a pop hit to become a cultural touchstone. Here are some ways the song left its mark:
- Soundtrack of a Generation: The song became an anthem for the late 1960s counterculture movement, capturing the spirit of optimism and change. It was featured in films and television shows of the era, further solidifying its cultural significance.
- Enduring Popularity: “Crystal Blue Persuasion” continues to be played on classic rock radio stations and has been covered by numerous artists. Its timeless message and catchy melody ensure its place in rock history.
- Reemergence: The song experienced a resurgence in popularity in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Its use in various media, including commercials and video games, introduced it to a new generation of listeners.
Conclusion
“Crystal Blue Persuasion” is more than just a song; it’s a snapshot of a time and place. It captures the optimism, idealism, and social consciousness of the late 1960s. Musically, it’s a well-crafted psychedelic rock song with a timeless melody and powerful message. Culturally, it serves as a reminder of the enduring power of music to inspire and unite.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Look over yonder
What do you see?
The sun is a-risin’
Most definitely
A new day is comin’, whoo-hoo
People are changin’
Ain’t it beautiful, whoo-hoo
Crystal blue persuasion
Better get ready
Gonna see the light
Love, love is the answer, whoo-hoo
And that’s all right
So don’t you give up now, whoo-hoo
It’s so easy to find
Just look to your soul (Look to your soul)
And open your mind
Crystal blue persuasion
Mm-hmm
It’s a new vibration
Crystal blue persuasion
Crystal
Blue persuasion
Maybe tomorrow
When he looks down
On every green field, whoo-hoo
And every town
All of his children
In every nation
There’ll be peace and good
Brotherhood
Crystal blue persuasion
Yeah
Crystal blue persuasion, aha
Crystal blue persuasion, aha
Crystal blue persuasion, aha (Oh)
Crystal blue persuasion, aha
Crystal blue persuasion, aha
Crystal blue persuasion, aha
Crystal blue persuasion, aha