Styx

Lyrics

4 ContributorsLorelei Lyrics{Intro}

[Verse 1]
When I think of Lorelei, my head turns all around
As gentle as a butterfly, she moves without a sound
I call her on the telephone, she says be there by eight
Tonight's the night she's movin' in and I can hardly wait

[Pre-Chorus]
The way she moves, ooh-ooh-ooh, I gotta say

[Chorus]
Lorelei, let's live together
Brighter than the stars, forever
Lorelei, let's live together
Brighter than the stars, forever
Oh baby, forever

{Bridge}

[Verse 2]
Her eyes become a paradise, she softly speaks my name
She brightens every lonely night, no one's quite the same
She calls me on the telephone, she says be there by eight
Tonight's the night she's movin' in, it's time to celebrate
[Pre-Chorus]
The way she moves, ooh-ooh-ooh, I gotta say

[Chorus]
Lorelei, let's live together
Brighter than the stars, forever
Lorelei, let's live together
Brighter than the stars, forever
Baby, baby, forever

[Chorus]
Lorelei, let's live together
(Lorelei, let's live together)
Brighter than the stars, forever
(Brighter than the stars, forever)
Lorelei, let's live together
(Lorelei, let's live together)
Brighter than the stars, forever
(Brighter than the stars, forever)
Lorelei, let's live together
(Lorelei, let's live together)
Brighter than the stars, forever
(Brighter than the stars, forever)
Lorelei, let's live together
(Lorelei, let's live together)
Brighter than the stars, forever
(Brighter than the stars, forever)
Lorelei, let's live together
(Lorelei, let's live together)
{Outro}

Get ready to rock out to one of the most iconic classics of the 1970s - Lorelei by Styx. Released in 1975 as part of their fifth album, Equinox, this rock tune made waves in the music industry and marked a significant change in the band's musical style.

With over 20 years of experience as a music expert, I'm excited to dive deep into the historical and creative roots of this timeless classic. So let's go on a journey and explore the ups and downs of Styx's career, how they created this masterpiece, and what makes it so special to this day.

About Lorelei

Out of the many singles that Styx has released over the years, Lorelei remains an all-time fan favorite. Though it wasn't their biggest hit, it certainly marked a significant turning point in the band's career and sound. According to critics, the song represents a shift from Progressive Rock to the more commercial, and more successful sound of Styx. But how did Lorelei come to be and what makes it so unique?

Lorelei showcases the group's signature blend of high-energy guitar riffs, and catchy vocals. The lyrics tell the story of a sailor who falls under the spell of a legendary siren named Lorelei, who sits atop a rocky cliff overlooking the Rhine River. This mythological tale pays tribute to the ancient Germanic legend and beautifully merges with the raw power of rock and roll. Dennis DeYoung, the lead vocalist, delivers a captivating and theatrical performance that helps bring the narrative to life.

But what truly sets Lorelei apart and has helped cement its place in music history is the way it combines different musical styles. The song marries the hard rock sounds of Styx's earlier work with the lighter elements of pop music, resulting in a more radio-friendly and accessible sound. But even with all of these changes, the group still maintained its distinctive musical identity, thanks to the talented musicianship demonstrated by the lead guitarist Tommy Shaw and the rest of the band.

Lorelei's musical arrangements are a perfect example of Styx's versatility and creativity. The song features a dynamic range of musical styles, including piano interludes, intricate guitar solos, and a rhythmic beat that gets your feet tapping in no time. It's a great example of how bands can evolve their sound without forgetting their roots and musical identity.

Despite being one of the band's first hits, Lorelei's influence on music goes beyond its success and popularity. It helped establish Styx's position in the music industry and paved the way for success in the years to come. The song's catchy tune and powerful narrative have inspired countless covers, remakes, and tributes over the years, further cementing its place in the rock and roll canon.

Perplexity and Burstiness in Lorelei

Let's talk about perplexity. Styx's music often features complex and layered arrangements that keep listeners engaged and intrigued. Lorelei is no exception. The song's clever storytelling and intricate instrumental arrangements create a sense of depth and mystery. From the opening chords, the song immerses the listener into the mythical world of Lorelei, prompting them to dive deep and explore the uncharted depths of the song's complex and layered narrative.

Now, for the burstiness. Lorelei's upbeat tempo and memorable hook are undoubtedly the most recognizable elements of the song. The opening guitar riff is instantly recognizable and gets feet tapping and heads nodding in no time. The song's driving rhythm, soaring vocals, and blistering guitar solos create an adrenaline-fueled experience that energizes and excites listeners.

In short, Lorelei represents the best of Styx's creative and musical talent. A perfect blend of perplexity and burstiness that transports listeners to another time and place in a whirlwind of sound, emotion, and storytelling.

Wrapping up

In a nutshell, Lorelei is a timeless rock classic that will always occupy a special place in the hearts and minds of music lovers everywhere. It's a testament to Styx's artistic vision, creativity, and ability to evolve their sound while still maintaining their unique musical identity. The song's clever storytelling, intricate musical arrangements, and electrifying performances have captivated audiences for over four decades and will undoubtedly continue to do so for generations to come.

So, let's raise our glasses to Styx and all the rock and roll legends who continue to inspire us and remind us of the timeless power of music.

• Release Date: March 1976
• Artist: Styx