About The Song
(Watch the video below)
"Every Picture Tells a Story" is not just a title track; it's a musical journey that encapsulates the essence of Rod Stewart's artistry. Released in 1971 as the title song for his third solo album, the track showcases Stewart's storytelling prowess, his soulful vocals, and a musical amalgamation of folk, rock, and blues.
The song opens with an acoustic guitar riff, setting the stage for a narrative that unfolds like a vivid and colorful painting. Stewart's gravelly voice, characterized by its unique rasp, immediately draws the listener into the world of the protagonist. As the story begins to unravel, it becomes evident that "Every Picture Tells a Story" is more than just a song; it's a cinematic experience, with each verse painting a new scene in the listener's mind.
Lyrically, the song recounts the adventures of a young man as he navigates through life. From his escapades with a married woman in San Francisco to a stint in a New Orleans jail, Stewart's narrative is filled with vivid characters and memorable anecdotes. The lyrics are infused with humor, wit, and a sense of rebelliousness, reflecting the free-spirited and carefree ethos of the early '70s.
The chorus, with its anthemic repetition of the phrase "Every picture tells a story, don't it?" becomes a mantra that ties the various episodes together. It serves as a thematic anchor, emphasizing the idea that each snapshot of life, like a picture, contributes to the broader narrative of our existence. Stewart's delivery of the chorus is both infectious and reflective, inviting the listener to ponder the interconnectedness of life's experiences.
Musically, the song is a melting pot of influences, reflecting Stewart's eclectic taste and the collaborative efforts of the musicians involved. The iconic mandolin riff, played by Ray Jackson of Lindisfarne, gives the track a folk-inspired texture. The guitar work, courtesy of Ronnie Wood, adds a rock and blues flavor that complements Stewart's vocals seamlessly. The instrumental breaks, featuring a combination of guitars, mandolin, and harmonica, showcase the band's musical prowess and contribute to the song's dynamic and engaging nature.
"Every Picture Tells a Story" was not just a hit; it became a defining moment in Rod Stewart's career. The album of the same name went on to become a critical and commercial success, solidifying Stewart's status as a solo artist. The song's infectious energy and relatable storytelling resonated with audiences, making it a classic that continues to endure over the decades.
The album cover itself, featuring a young Stewart with a leopard-print skin rug draped over his shoulder, became iconic and synonymous with the era. The visual representation, coupled with the musical storytelling in the title track, created a cohesive artistic statement that captured the spirit of the early '70s.
In conclusion, "Every Picture Tells a Story" stands as a testament to Rod Stewart's ability to craft a narrative within the confines of a song. The track's rich storytelling, coupled with its diverse musical influences, creates an immersive experience for the listener. As a title track, it not only defined an album but also encapsulated a moment in time, becoming a timeless representation of Rod Stewart's artistry during the early '70s.
Video
Lyrics
Let's sing along with the lyrics!
Spent some time feeling inferior
Standing in front of my mirror
Combed my hair in a thousand ways
But I came out looking just the same
Daddy said, "Son, you better see the world
I wouldn't blame you if you wanted to leave
But remember one thing, don't lose your head
To a woman that'll spend your bread"
So I got out, whoo
Paris was a place you could hide away
If you felt you didn't fit in
The French police wouldn't give me no peace
They claimed I was a nasty person
Down along the Left Bank, minding my own, whoo
Was knocked down by a human stampede
Got arrested for inciting a peaceful riot
When all I wanted was a cup of tea
I was accused, whoo
I moved on
Down in Rome, I wasn't getting enough
Of the things that keep a young man alive
My body stunk, but I kept my funk, whoo
At a time when I was right outta luck
Getting desperate, indeed I was, yeah
Looking like a tourist attraction
Oh, my dear, I better get outta here
For the Vatican don't give no sanction
I wasn't ready for that, no, no
I moved right out east, yeah
Listen
On the Peeking ferry, I was feeling merry
Sailing on my way back here
I fell in love with a slit-eyed lady
By the light of an eastern moon
Shanghai Lil never used the pill
She claimed that it just ain't natural
She took me up on deck and bit my neck
Oh, people, I was glad I found her
Oh, yes, I was glad I found her, whoo-hoo
Wait a minute
I firmly believed that I
Didn't need anyone but me
I sincerely thought I was so complete
Look how wrong you can be
The women I've known I wouldn't let tie my shoe
They wouldn't give you the time of day
But the slit-eyed lady knocked me off my feet
God, I was glad I found her
And if they have the words I can tell to you
To help you on the way down the road
I couldn't quote you no Dickens, Shelley or Keats
'Cause it's all been said before
Make the best out of the bad, just laugh it off, ha
You didn't have to come here anyway
So, remember, every picture tells a story, don't it?
Every picture tells a story, don't it?
Every picture tells a story, don't it? Whoo
Every picture tells a story, don't it?
Every picture tells a story, don't it? Whoo
Every picture tells a story, don't it?
Every picture tells a story, don't it?
Every picture tells a story, don't it?
Every picture tells a story, don't it?
Every picture tells a story, don't it?
Every picture tells a story, don't it?
Every picture tells a story, don't it?
Every picture tells a story, don't it?
Every picture tells a story, don't it?
Every picture tells a story, don't it? Whoo
Every picture tells a story, don't it? Whoo
Every picture tells a story, don't it? Whoo
Every picture tells a story, don't it? Whoo
Every picture tells a story, don't it? Whoo
Every picture tells a story, don't it?
Every picture tells a story, don't it?
Every picture tells a story, don't it?
Every picture tells a story, don't it?