About the song Papa Was A Rolling Stone – The Temptations
“Papa Was a Rolling Stone” is a soul song by the American vocal group The Temptations, released in 1972. It was written by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong, and produced by Whitfield. The song is a social commentary on the plight of African American families in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s.
The song is narrated by a child who recalls their father, a rolling stone, who was never around for their family. The father’s infidelities, alcoholism, and eventual abandonment of the family are all vividly portrayed in the lyrics. Despite his flaws, the child still loves and misses their father.
The song explores themes of family, responsibility, and love. It is a powerful and moving song that has resonated with listeners for generations.
Here are some of the key themes of the song:
- The absent father: The father is a central figure in the song, but he is always absent. He is either out working, out drinking, or out with other women. His absence is a source of pain and frustration for his family.
- The struggles of single mothers: The mother is left to raise the children on her own. She is hardworking and resourceful, but she is also lonely and alone. The song highlights the strength and resilience of single mothers.
- The cycle of poverty: The family is trapped in a cycle of poverty. The father’s lack of responsibility makes it difficult for the family to make ends meet. The song suggests that this cycle is difficult to break.
- The power of love: Despite the pain and hardship, the child still loves their father. This love is a testament to the power of family.
“Papa Was a Rolling Stone” is a complex and nuanced song that has been praised for its honesty, its realism, and its emotional impact. It is considered to be one of The Temptations’ signature songs and one of the greatest soul songs of all time.
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Papa Was A Rolling Stone – The Temptations Lyrics
(Verse 1) Sunday morning, breakfast time Mama’s cookin’ up a storm Papa’s rollin’ in, he’s late again Mama’s frownin’, she’s not pleased
(Chorus) Papa was a rolling stone Whenever he would roll he’d roll all alone Papa was a rolling stone He never did make it back home
(Verse 2) Monday mornin’ mama’s gone Papa’s left her all alone She’s gotta work, she gotta pay the bills Papa’s out there chasin’ thrills
(Chorus) Papa was a rolling stone Whenever he would roll he’d roll all alone Papa was a rolling stone He never did make it back home
(Bridge) The children cry, they miss their dad They wonder where he’s gone and when he’ll be back Mama tries to comfort them, but she’s hurting too She knows Papa’s never comin’ through
(Chorus) Papa was a rolling stone Whenever he would roll he’d roll all alone Papa was a rolling stone He never did make it back home
(Outro) Papa’s gone, he’s gone away He’ll never be comin’ back home someday Mama’s left with the children to raise She’ll never forget Papa’s ways