Rock Away
Beres Hammond
Nostalgia and the Power of Music in 'Rock Away'
Beres Hammond's 'Rock Away' is a heartfelt ode to the golden days of music and the sense of community and love that it fostered. The song is steeped in nostalgia, with Hammond reminiscing about a time when music had the power to bring people together and create lasting memories. The chorus, with its repeated lines about missing those days and the songs that made people 'rock away,' sets the tone for a journey back in time to an era where love and music reigned supreme.
In the verses, Hammond pays tribute to legendary artists like John Holt, Alton Ellis, and Marvin Gaye, whose music had a profound impact on him and many others. These references are not just name-drops; they serve to highlight the quality and emotional depth of the music from that era. The mention of holding a woman close when Smokey Robinson sings or drifting away to Aretha Franklin's voice evokes a sense of intimacy and connection that modern music, according to Hammond, seems to lack. This longing for the past is palpable and serves as a critique of the current state of music and society.
The song also touches on the need for a 'brand new start,' suggesting that people everywhere need more music that comes from the heart. This is a call to action, urging contemporary artists to create music that can evoke the same feelings of love, unity, and joy that the classics did. Hammond's 'Rock Away' is not just a trip down memory lane; it's a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of music and a plea for a return to its roots, where it served as a unifying force in people's lives.