Lynyrd Skynyrd

Lynyrd Skynyrd avatar image
checked
Was I Right Or Wrong album cover

Was I Right Or Wrong

Lynyrd Skynyrd

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Like a restless leaf in the autumn breeze
Once I was a tumbling weed
Like a rolling stone, cold and all alone
Living for the day my train would come
I never cared for school or any golden rules
Papa used to always say I was a useless fool
So I left my home to show them they was wrong
And headed out on the road singing my song
Then one sunny day. The man, he looked my way
And everything that I dreamed of, it was real
Money, girls and cars; and big long cigars
And I caught the first plane home so papa would see

[Chorus]
When I went home to show 'em they was wrong
All that I found was two tombstones
Somebody tell me please was I right or wrong
Oh, such a sad song
First I got lost, then I got found
But the ones that I love are in the ground
Papa I only wish you could see me now
Take a listen papa
Whoo, I learnt how to play my guitar
Gonna be a superstar
[Verse 2]
First I got lost, then I got found
The ones I love are in the ground
Won't you tell me please was I right or wrong
If there's any way you can hear what I say
Papa, I never meant to do you wrong
All the money, girls and cars. And all the words and all the cigars
Papa, I just want you to know they couldn't take your place

[Chorus]
When I went home to show 'em they was wrong
All that I found was two tombstones
Somebody tell me please was I right or wrong
Oh, such a sad song
First I got lost, then I got found
But the ones that I love are in the ground
Somebody tell me please was I right or wrong

Lynyrd Skynyrd image

If you're a fan of Southern rock or classic rock, you're probably familiar with the iconic band Lynyrd Skynyrd. One of their lesser-known songs, but still just as important, is "Was I Right Or Wrong," which was released on their debut album "Pronounced Leh-Nerd Skin-Nerd" in 1973. The song tells a story of a man who is questioning his decisions and wondering if he made the right choices, both in his personal life and in society as a whole.

About Was I Right Or Wrong

As mentioned, "Was I Right Or Wrong" was released on Lynyrd Skynyrd's first album, "Pronounced Leh-Nerd Skin-Nerd," which was a game-changer for the band and the genre of Southern rock. The song was written by lead singer Ronnie Van Zant and guitarist Gary Rossington, both of whom played integral roles in the band's success.

The song opens with a simple, yet catchy guitar riff, and Van Zant's distinctive southern drawl kicks in shortly after. The lyrics are poignant and thought-provoking, as the narrator sings about his doubts and fears. He references societal issues, such as war and poverty, and wonders if he made the right decision by embracing his own personal beliefs.

One of the standout lines of the song is "I've been right but I've been wrong," which perfectly sums up the theme of the lyrics. The narrator acknowledges that he's made mistakes in the past, but he still believes in himself and his own convictions.

The guitar solos in "Was I Right Or Wrong" are also noteworthy. They showcase Rossington's talent and highlight the band's unique sound. Skynyrd was known for incorporating both blues and rock elements into their music, and "Was I Right Or Wrong" is no exception.

Overall, "Was I Right Or Wrong" is a powerful and introspective song. It may not have garnered the same level of attention as some of Lynyrd Skynyrd's other hits, such as "Sweet Home Alabama," but it's still an important piece of the band's discography. It showcases their range as musicians and solidifies their place in the Southern rock pantheon.

If you're looking for a song to add to your classic rock playlist, be sure to give "Was I Right Or Wrong" a listen. You won't be disappointed.