In the composition "They Played Rock And Roll" by Saxon, an evocative portrayal of a bygone epoch emerges, notably the late 1970s and early 1980s, an era during which the band reached the zenith of its musical prowess. This musical opus serves as a homage to a pivotal juncture in the annals of rock, encapsulating the ethos and quintessence of that particular period.
Commencing with the lines "When the bomber flew it was '79," the lyrics lay the foundation for the narrative, alluding to a seminal year in the history of rock. The reference to a flying bomber subtly evokes the iconic bomber jackets synonymous with the rock and metal subculture during this era, with 1979 signifying a watershed moment for both Saxon and the broader rock music panorama.
As the lyrical narrative unfolds, the band adeptly captures the ethos of the rock and roll lifestyle, exemplified by phrases such as "Living fast and free, the only way to be." This encapsulates the rebellious and unbridled spirit that defined the rock and metal culture during that era. The assertion that "The world was on the street, they were the boys to beat" accentuates the band's prominence and consequential influence within the musical milieu of their heyday.
The chorus of the song, assertively proclaiming "They played rock and roll," functions as a rallying cry, encapsulating the unwavering commitment of the band to their craft and the genre they played a pivotal role in shaping. This recurrent declaration serves to underscore the central theme of the song, exalting the potency and resonance of rock and roll music.
The middle stanza of the lyrics delves into the band's arduous touring regimen, making reference to iconic venues such as Hammersmith. The mention of "Adrenaline, leather, and sweat" vividly paints a sensory tableau of the intensity and fervor characterizing their live performances. The lyrics meticulously delineate the visceral experience attendant to attending a Saxon concert during this era.
The reference to the 1980s as "the hour" accentuates the epochal significance of that decade in the evolutionary trajectory of rock music. The lyrics allude to the decibel-crushing power of their sound and the profound emotional impact it had on audiences. The recurrent motif of living fast and free resonates with the overarching ethos of the time, underscoring the pursuit of a hedonistic and unabashed lifestyle.
In summation, Saxon's "They Played Rock And Roll" functions as a musical time capsule, transporting listeners to a momentous period in the annals of rock history. The lyrics reverently celebrate the band's trajectory, the dynamic energy inherent in their live performances, and the enduring legacy of rock and roll. Through vivid imagery and nostalgic references, the song pays homage to a defining era in music that continues to resonate with aficionados of the genre.
