“Simple Man” by Lynyrd Skynyrd is more than just a song; it’s a heartfelt life lesson passed down through generations. Released on their debut album Pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd in 1973, this iconic track has resonated deeply with listeners worldwide, becoming one of the band’s most enduring and beloved songs. The lyrics, seemingly simple on the surface, offer profound advice on living a fulfilling life, delivered with the raw emotion and Southern rock spirit that define Lynyrd Skynyrd’s signature sound.
The beauty of “Simple Man” lies in its straightforward yet powerful message. Penned by guitarist Gary Rossington and vocalist Ronnie Van Zant, the song is presented as a mother’s earnest counsel to her son. It’s a guide to navigating life’s complexities, emphasizing values that transcend time and trends. Let’s delve into the lyrics that have made this song a classic.
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?"The opening verses set a tender, intimate scene: a mother sharing wisdom with her son. The advice is both practical and philosophical. “Take your time, don’t live too fast” speaks to the importance of patience and avoiding the pitfalls of a rushed life. It acknowledges the inevitability of “troubles” but assures that they are temporary, “they will pass.” The lyrics also touch upon universal human experiences – finding love and recognizing a higher power, “someone up above,” suggesting a spiritual dimension to a fulfilling life.
The chorus is the heart of the song and where the key message truly resonates: “Be a simple kind of man.” This isn’t advocating for simplistic thinking, but rather for a life grounded in authenticity and genuine values. “Be something you love and understand” encourages self-discovery and pursuing a path aligned with one’s passions and principles. It’s a call to self-awareness and living in accordance with one’s true self.
Moving into the subsequent verses, the lyrics warn against the allure of materialism: “Forget your lust for the rich man’s gold.” This line emphasizes the futility of chasing wealth as the primary source of happiness. Instead, the song suggests that true contentment is found within: “All that you need is in your soul.” This reinforces the idea that inner peace and satisfaction are more valuable than material possessions. The repetition of “All that I want for you, my son, is to be satisfied” underscores a mother’s deepest wish for her child’s happiness and fulfillment, not in worldly success, but in inner contentment.
The bridge, “Boy, don’t you worry, you’ll find yourself / Follow your heart and nothing else,” provides reassurance and encouragement. It acknowledges the journey of self-discovery and emphasizes the importance of intuition and inner guidance. “Follow your heart” is a timeless piece of advice, urging listeners to trust their own instincts and passions in navigating life’s path.
“Simple Man” is not just a set of lyrics; it’s a cultural touchstone. Its enduring appeal lies in its universal themes of family, love, simplicity, and inner peace. In a world often characterized by complexity and materialism, the song offers a refreshing and comforting message. It reminds us of the importance of slowing down, valuing genuine connections, and seeking fulfillment within ourselves rather than in external achievements. Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Simple Man” continues to inspire and resonate because it speaks to the core human desire for a meaningful and authentic life.
