About the Song
"Old Time Rock and Roll" is a song written by George Jackson and Thomas E. Jones III with uncredited lyrics by Bob Seger. It was recorded by Seger for his tenth studio album Stranger in Town (1978). It was also released as a single in 1979. It is a sentimentalized look back at the music of the original rock 'n' roll era and has often been referenced as Seger's favorite song. The song gained renewed popularity after being featured in the 1983 film Risky Business. It has since become a standard in popular music and was ranked number two on the Amusement & Music Operators Association's survey of the Top 40 Jukebox Singles of All Time in 1996. It was also listed as one of the Songs of the Century in 2001 and ranked No. 100 in the American Film Institute's 100 Years…100 Songs poll in 2004 of the top songs in American cinema.
Meaning Behind the Lyrics
Many listeners interpret "Old Time Rock & Roll" as a nostalgic celebration of the classic rock era, evoking feelings of joy and freedom associated with simpler times. The song reflects a longing for the music that defined youth and the carefree spirit of that period. Its upbeat tempo and iconic sound can be seen as a tribute to the enduring legacy of rock 'n' roll, inviting people to reminisce about the past while still embracing the energy of the genre. This connection to both memory and celebration has contributed to its lasting popularity over the decades.
Did You Know?
- A roots rock musician known for his raspy, powerful voice, Seger is one of the best-known artists of the heartland rock genre, with his songs often concerning love, women, and blue-collar themes.
- Among his many hits are "Night Moves", "Turn the Page", "Mainstreet", "Still the Same", "Hollywood Nights", "Against the Wind", "You'll Accomp'ny Me", "Shame on the Moon", "Roll Me Away", "Like a Rock", and "Shakedown", the last of which was written for the 1987 film Beverly Hills Cop II and topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Music Details
These details come from the iTunes song listing used for the artwork and metadata match.
- Album/collection: Greatest Hits (Deluxe)
- Genre: Rock
- iTunes release date: May 5, 1978
- Track runtime: 3:15
Video Snapshot
- Video title: Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band – Old Time Rock & Roll (Lyrics)
- YouTube channel: Young Pilgrim Music
Quick Facts
- Artist: Bob Seger
- Song: Old Time Rock & Roll
- Album/collection: Greatest Hits (Deluxe)
- Genre: Rock
- Reference page: Old Time Rock and Roll
