Styx

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Give me a job, give me security
Give me a chance to survive
I'm just a poor soul in the unemployment line
My God, I'm hardly alive
My mother and father, my wife and my friends
I see them laugh in my face
But I've got the power, and I've got the will
I'm not a charity case

[Hook]
I'll take those long nights, impossible odds
Keeping my eye to the keyhole
If it takes all that to be just what I am
I'm gonna be a blue collar man

[Verse 2]
Make me an offer that I can't refuse
Make me respectable, man
This is my last time in the unemployment line
So like it or not, I'll take those

[Chorus]
Long nights, impossible odds
Keeping my back to the wall
If it takes all that to be just what I am
I'm gonna be a blue collar man
[Bridge 1]
Keeping my mind on a better life
Where happiness is only a heartbeat away
Paradise, can it be all I heard it was
I close my eyes and maybe I'm already there

Ooh yeah

[Chorus]
I'll take those long nights, impossible odds
Keeping my back to the wall
All that to be just what I am
I'm gonna be a blue collar man

[Bridge 2]
Do do do do do do do do
(You don't understand)
Do do do do do do do do
Do do do do do do do do
Do do do do do do do do

[Chorus]
I'll take those long nights, impossible odds
Keeping my eye to the keyhole
If it takes all that to be just what I am
I'm gonna be a blue collar
Gotta be a blue collar
Gonna be a blue collar man
[Outro]
Alright!
Believe it

Styx is one of the most recognizable rock bands of the 70s and 80s, known for their brand of progressive rock and hard-hitting lyrics. The band is known for their political and social commentary, and this is evident in their song Blue Collar Man (Long Nights). The track is a celebration of the working class of America, and it speaks to the struggles that they faced in the late 70s. With a driving beat and powerful lyrics, the song has become an anthem for workers across the country.

About Blue Collar Man (Long Nights)

The song was released by Styx in 1978 and is widely regarded as one of their most well-known tracks. Blue Collar Man (Long Nights) was written by Tommy Shaw, the band's guitarist and vocalist. The song tells the story of an individual who is struggling to make ends meet, working long hours in a factory to provide for his family. The lyrics speak to the frustration and anger felt by the working class during this period, as the American industrial sector was in a state of decline.

The lyrics of the song are a powerful statement of solidarity with blue-collar workers, who were struggling to make ends meet during this period of economic uncertainty. The narrator of the song speaks for many workers who felt disenfranchised by politicians and the business establishment. The song speaks to the struggles of the working class in a way that is relatable and powerful, and it remains a favorite among fans of the band.

One of the most distinctive aspects of Blue Collar Man (Long Nights) is its sound. Styx incorporates elements of hard rock and progressive rock into the song, creating a unique sound that is both powerful and emotional. The driving beat of the track and the soaring guitar work give the song an energy and intensity that is reminiscent of the best rock anthems of the 70s.

The chorus of the song is perhaps its most memorable and powerful moment. The repetition of the phrase "give me a job, give me a sign" speaks to the desperation of the working class during this period. It is a powerful statement of the need for meaningful work and economic stability. The song remains just as relevant today as it did in 1978, as many workers continue to face economic uncertainty and a lack of job security.

Blue Collar Man (Long Nights) has become an iconic song in the rock genre, earning widespread critical acclaim and commercial success. While many of Styx's songs deal with philosophical and abstract themes, this track is grounded in the realities of everyday life. The band's ability to connect with working-class audiences and speak to their struggles is one of the reasons for their continued success.

In many ways, Blue Collar Man (Long Nights) is a testament to the power of music to reflect the realities of society and speak to the struggles of everyday people. It is a song that has stood the test of time and remains an important part of the rock canon.

Wrapping Up

With its driving beat, powerful vocals, and relatable lyrics, Blue Collar Man (Long Nights) is a true rock classic. The song remains just as relevant today as it was in 1978, speaking to the economic struggles that many workers continue to face. Styx's ability to connect with working-class audiences and speak to their experiences is a testament to their talent and enduring impact on the rock genre.

• Release Date: September 1, 1978
• Artist: Styx