Roll, Roll, Roll
B.B. King
The Eternal Rhythm of Life: B.B. King's 'Roll, Roll, Roll'
B.B. King's 'Roll, Roll, Roll' is a heartfelt ode to the musician's lifelong love affair with music and the journey it has taken him on. The song begins with a reflection on his past, from the small town he left behind to the bustling city where he found his groove. This journey is marked by moments of joy, good music, and love, encapsulating the essence of a life well-lived. The repetition of 'I like it, I like it just that way' emphasizes his contentment with the path he has chosen, despite its ups and downs.
The chorus, 'I wanna roll roll roll forever,' serves as a powerful declaration of his desire to keep the music alive, to feel the beat continuously, and to live from one song to the next. This line captures the essence of a musician's life, where the rhythm and melody are not just part of the profession but are integral to their very existence. The idea of 'rolling forever' suggests an unending journey, a perpetual motion that mirrors the timeless nature of music itself.
In the latter part of the song, King imagines meeting his maker with his music in hand. This imagery is poignant, suggesting that music is not just a career but a spiritual journey. The line 'He knows life, and life can be so grand' implies that the divine understands the beauty and complexity of a life dedicated to music. The song concludes with a reaffirmation that 'right there in the music is right where I belong,' solidifying the notion that for B.B. King, music is home, sanctuary, and purpose all rolled into one.