The Meaning Behind The Song: Kodachrome by Paul Simon
One of the most iconic songs of the ’70s, “Kodachrome” by Paul Simon is a celebration of life, hope, and the simple pleasures that make it worth living. Released in 1973, it was a huge commercial success, reaching the number two spot on the US Billboard Hot 100. Over the years, it has become a classic rock staple, beloved for its catchy melody, upbeat rhythm, and whimsical lyrics.
The Inspiration for the Song
Simon has said that he wrote the song in 1973, during a time when he was feeling creatively and personally adrift. According to him, he was “stuck” and unable to write anything that felt authentic and meaningful. The title of the song, “Kodachrome,” came from a brand of color film that Simon had grown up with and associated with his childhood. The word itself sounded musical to him, with its smooth, rolling syllables, and he began to sing to himself, “Don’t it make my brown eyes blue.”
The opening lines of the song, “When I think back on all the crap I learned in high school, it’s a wonder I can think at all,” reflect Simon’s frustration with the education system. He has stated that he felt that schools were more interested in teaching conformity and obedience than fostering creativity and independent thinking. The lyrics go on to talk about the pleasures of photography, music, and travel, suggesting that these activities can offer an escape from the mundanity and negativity of everyday life.
The Message of the Song
At its core, “Kodachrome” is a song about finding joy and meaning in life’s small moments. The song is optimistic and hopeful, suggesting that even in the midst of chaos and uncertainty, there is still beauty to be found. The lyrics are filled with playful, whimsical imagery, evoking a sense of childlike wonder and innocence. The line “Everything looks worse in black and white” is a perfect example of this, as it suggests that life is meant to be lived in full color, with all the shades and nuances that come with it.
The catchy chorus of the song, “Mama don’t take my Kodachrome away,” has become one of the most iconic lines in modern popular music. It’s a rallying cry to hold on to the things that bring us joy and meaning, even in the face of societal pressure to conform. Simon has said that the line is meant to be interpreted broadly, and that “Kodachrome” can be whatever brings color to your life, whether it’s art, music, travel, or something else entirely.
The Legacy of the Song
“Kodachrome” has become a timeless classic, loved by generations of music fans for its catchy melody and upbeat spirit. In 2010, Simon announced that he would retire from touring, and the song took on a new poignancy as fans celebrated the end of an era. In an interview with NPR, Simon said, “It’s a song that’s so well-loved, and it’s such a good song. And it had such a long life that I kind of figured it would make it on its own.”
Over the years, “Kodachrome” has been covered by numerous artists, from the American country singer Alan Jackson to the legendary British punk rock band The Clash. Altogether, it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the song and the message it carries. As Simon has said, “It’s a song that’s enduring and will endure, I think.”
In Conclusion
“Kodachrome” is one of those rare songs that captures the spirit of an era while remaining timeless in its appeal. It’s a celebration of life’s small moments, a rallying cry to hold on to what brings us joy and meaning, and a reminder that even in the midst of chaos and uncertainty, there is still beauty to be found. It’s a song that has inspired generations of music fans, and will continue to do so for many years to come.
