Who Will Save Rock And Roll?

The Dictators' song "Who Will Save Rock And Roll?" is a poignant reflection on the state of rock music and its cultural significance. The lyrics express a deep sense of loss and nostalgia, as the narrator falls to their knees and looks to the sky, questioning who will save rock and roll. This imagery sets the tone for the song, highlighting a feeling of desperation and longing for a savior to revive the genre that once defined a generation.

The song references iconic figures and moments in rock history, such as Murray The K, a famous DJ known for promoting rock and roll, and The Stooges, a band synonymous with raw, unfiltered rock energy. By mentioning these figures, the song underscores the absence of influential personalities who once championed the genre. The line "June 1st, 67 something died and went to heaven" alludes to the release of The Beatles' "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band," a pivotal moment in rock history that the narrator wishes had never happened, suggesting that it marked the beginning of the end for the pure, rebellious spirit of rock and roll.

The lyrics also critique the commercialization and commodification of rock music, with lines like "every protest singer, every guitar slinger, every punk rock sinner sells his soul." This sentiment reflects a disillusionment with how the genre has evolved, with artists seemingly more focused on profit than on the rebellious, countercultural ethos that once defined rock and roll. The repeated refrain, "my generation is not the salvation," emphasizes a sense of hopelessness and resignation, as the narrator laments the inability of their own generation to revive the spirit of rock and roll.

Ultimately, "Who Will Save Rock And Roll?" is a powerful commentary on the changing landscape of rock music and a heartfelt plea for a return to its roots. The song captures the essence of a genre that once stood for rebellion and authenticity, now seemingly lost in a sea of commercialization and nostalgia.