Time Has Come Today
The Chambers Brothers
The Urgency of Now: A Psychedelic Journey Through Time
The Chambers Brothers' song "Time Has Come Today" is a powerful anthem that captures the spirit of change and urgency. Released in the late 1960s, a period marked by social upheaval and the counterculture movement, the song reflects the desire for immediate action and transformation. The repeated refrain, "Time has come today," emphasizes the pressing need to seize the moment and make significant changes, both personally and collectively.
The lyrics convey a sense of liberation and defiance, particularly in the lines, "Young hearts can go their way" and "I don't care what others say." This suggests a break from traditional norms and expectations, encouraging young people to follow their own paths. The mention of changing rules and the lack of a stable home further underscores the theme of transition and the search for new beginnings. The imagery of roaming and having no home can be seen as a metaphor for the broader quest for identity and purpose during a time of societal transformation.
The song also delves into the emotional and psychological impact of these changes. Phrases like "My love has flown away" and "My tears have come and gone" reflect personal loss and the bittersweet nature of growth. The line "My soul has been psychedelicized" hints at the influence of the psychedelic experience, which was a significant aspect of the 1960s counterculture. This suggests a deeper, almost spiritual awakening that comes with embracing change and facing the unknown. The repetition of the word "time" throughout the song serves as a constant reminder of its relentless passage and the importance of acting in the present.