Paul Simon

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
The mama pajama rolled out of bed
And she ran to the police station
When the papa found out, he began to shout
And he started the investigation

[Refrain]
It's against the law, it was against the law
What the Mama saw, it was against the law

[Verse 2]
The mama looked down and spit on the ground
Every time my name gets mentioned
The papa said "Oy, if I get that boy
I'm gonna stick him in the house of detention"

[Chorus]
Well I'm on my way
I don't know where I'm going
I'm on my way
I'm taking my time but I don't know where
Goodbye to Rosie, the Queen of Corona
See you, me and Julio down by the schoolyard
See you, me and Julio down by the schoolyard

[Instrumental break]
[Verse 3]
Whoa, in a couple of days, they come and take me away
But the press let the story leak
Now when the radical priest come to get me released
We was all on the cover of Newsweek

[Chorus]
And I'm on my way
I don't know where I'm going
I'm on my way
I'm taking my time but I don't know where
Goodbye to Rosie, the Queen of Corona
See you, me and Julio down by the schoolyard
See you, me and Julio down by the schoolyard
See you, me and Julio down by the schoolyard

If you're a lover of folk rock music, chances are Paul Simon is a familiar name to you. His music has been a household name for decades, and one song that has stood the test of time is "Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard." An upbeat and catchy tune, this song was released in 1972, and it topped charts not only in the US but also in multiple countries worldwide.

About Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard

Written by Paul Simon and produced by Roy Halee, "Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard" was first released in 1972 as part of his second studio album titled after the artist's name. The song's cultural and historical relevance cannot be overstated, as it encapsulates a particular historical moment in the U.S, particularly an era when protests and demonstrations against various social injustices were at their peak.

The song's theme revolves around a story of two boys who are in trouble with the police for an undisclosed crime, "Mama, Mama, Mama, can't you see What the schoolboy's done to me?". The lyrics describe how the two evade the authorities by hiding down by the schoolyard. The catchy chorus "Me and Julio down by the schoolyard" has a unique rhythm and sound that earned the song its place on the charts and hearts of many worldwide.

The song's unique blend of folk and rock music, which incorporates the sounds of South African township jive, has been praised by music critics. The song's catchy beat, colorful lyrics, and storytelling have also contributed to its longevity and continued relevance in popular culture.

In 1988, Simon released a music video for the song as part of his "Negotiations and Love Songs" album. The video features an introduction by the famous American rapper Big Daddy Kane and Biz Markie.

"Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard" has also been covered by various musicians. The Dave Matthews Band has performed the song at various live events, giving the song a new modern spin. Multiple other artists have also covered this iconic tune, attesting to its continued relevance and the impact it has had on the music industry.

In recent years," Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard" has featured in several works of popular fiction. It has been used as a soundtrack for the American TV series Glee and the film adaptation of the book, Diary of a Wimpy Kid.

So, What is the Song About?

"Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard" unique storytelling and lyrical composition have always made it quite a puzzle to piece together the song's narrative. While some believe the story follows two boys who have committed an unknown crime, others suggest that it could be a metaphor for rebellion against the mainstream culture.

The song's chorus line, "Me and Julio down by the schoolyard," could also be interpreted as a way to reject traditional authority and norms, promoting free-spiritedness and youthful rebellion. Nevertheless, the song's theme and lyrics remind us that the spirit of youth is an essential part of our humanity that we must embrace.

Bottomline

"Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard" is more than just a nostalgic tune or a testament to the incredible musical genius of Paul Simon. It is a profound symbol of youthful rebellion, self-discovery, and the importance of defying convention and authority whenever necessary.

With a catchy rhythm, colorful lyrics, and a timeless sound that still resonates with fans all over the world, this song will continue to hold a special place in the hearts of many for years to come.

• Release Date: January 24, 1972
• Artist: Paul Simon