Paul Kelly

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Something's frying on the floor below
I'm leaning out my window
The sky's on fire, the street's all aglow
And somebody's singing to the radio

[Chorus]
I would jump from the sixteenth floor
If I only could get next to you
Put my head in a lion's jaw
If I only could get next to you

[Verse 2]
I'm walking the floor, I'm climbing the walls
I wake up from dreaming, that's when I fall

[Chorus]
I would jump from the sixteenth floor
If I only could get next to you
Put my head in a lion's jaw
If I only could get next to you
Take a ride on a wrecking ball
Yes, I would, darling

[Pre-Chorus]
Every day I speak your name
If I had wings, I'd fly
'Cause you're not here to hold me
[Chorus]
I would jump from the sixteenth floor (Sixteenth floor)
Put my head in a lion's jaw (Lion's jaw)
I'd walk on burning coals (Burning coals)
I'd sell my only soul (Only soul)
Yes, I would

[Pre-Chorus]
Every day I speak your name
If I had wings, I'd fly
There's no one here to hold me

[Chorus]
I'd walk on burning coal (Burning coal)
I'd sell my only soul (Only soul)
I'd jump from the sixteenth floor (Sixteenth floor)
Put my head in a lion's jaw (Lion's jaw)
Yes, I would
Take a ride on Niagara Falls (Niagara Falls)
Over broken glass, I would crawl (I would crawl)
I'd walk on burning coal (Burning coal)Embed

There's a certain magic that comes with songs that transport us to different places and times. With "Song from the Sixteenth Floor" by Paul Kelly, it's like taking a step into the past, into a vibrant narrative that unfolds on the sixteenth floor of a city building. This song, with its catchy melodies and evocative lyrics, captures the essence of a moment and invites listeners to embark on a journey to a bygone era.

About Song from the Sixteenth Floor

"Song from the Sixteenth Floor" is a captivating track by renowned Australian singer-songwriter, Paul Kelly. Known for his talent in storytelling through music, Kelly showcases his prowess once again in this song. While the specific inspiration behind the song remains a mystery, it paints a vivid picture of life and emotions in an urban environment. The lyrics transport us to the sixteenth floor of a building, offering a glimpse into the lives of its occupants and the ambience of the bustling city below.

With his distinct and heartfelt vocal delivery, Paul Kelly captures the essence of the characters and their stories. The song's beautifully crafted melodies and arrangements provide a solid foundation for the powerful storytelling that unfolds. It's a testament to Kelly's ability to create music that resonates deeply with his audience.

As the song unfolds, it becomes clear that "Song from the Sixteenth Floor" is more than just a simple tale. It explores themes of love, loss, and the human experience in an urban setting. The lyrics are rich in imagery, painting a detailed picture of the world on the sixteenth floor. Through his words, Kelly invites listeners to connect with the characters and their struggles, creating a poignant and immersive listening experience.

One of the strengths of Paul Kelly's songwriting is his ability to infuse his lyrics with emotion and depth. In "Song from the Sixteenth Floor," he masterfully weaves together the stories of various characters, each with their own unique perspectives and experiences. From the jaded office worker to the lonely soul staring out of the window, each line of the song brings these characters to life, allowing listeners to peek into their lives and form a connection.

The musical arrangement of "Song from the Sixteenth Floor" perfectly complements the storytelling. The instrumentation, featuring acoustic guitars, gentle percussion, and subtle hints of piano, creates an intimate and introspective atmosphere. The vocals, delivered with raw emotion by Paul Kelly, add a layer of authenticity to the song. The melodies are memorable, providing listeners with a musical journey that perfectly matches the narrative.

Paul Kelly's storytelling ability is highlighted in the chorus of "Song from the Sixteenth Floor," where he sums up the emotions and struggles of the characters in just a few lines. The chorus acts as a powerful anchor, drawing in listeners and leaving a lasting impression. It's one of those moments in music that captivates and lingers, reminding us of the power of well-crafted songwriting.

Song from the Sixteenth Floor" stands as a testament to Paul Kelly's skill as a songwriter and storyteller. With its evocative lyrics, captivating melodies, and poignant themes, it's a song that transports listeners to a different time and place. It invites us to reflect on the lives of those around us and the stories that unfold in the heart of the city. Whether you're a fan of Paul Kelly or a newcomer to his music, "Song from the Sixteenth Floor" is a must-listen that showcases the beauty and power of storytelling through song.

• Release Date: July 1994
• Artist: Paul Kelly