The Meaning Behind The Song: Cleveland Rocks by Ian Hunter

The Meaning Behind The Song: Cleveland Rocks by Ian Hunter

Cleveland Rocks is the anthem of Cleveland, and is commonly associated with The Drew Carrey Show. It is played after Cleveland Cavaliers and Cleveland Guardian wins. The actual reason why Cleveland rocks is not because it’s actually good, it’s because it was one of the biggest Rock And Roll cities in the USA, and maybe even the world.

Personally, Cleveland Rocks holds a special place in my heart. As someone who grew up in Cleveland, this song reminds me of the vibrant music scene that once existed in the city. It takes me back to the days of attending local rock concerts and feeling the energy of the crowd as we all sang along to the lyrics.

The lyrics of the song capture the rebellious spirit of rock and roll and the sense of pride that comes with being a part of a passionate musical community. The line “All this energy calling me, Back where it comes from” resonates with anyone who has ever felt the pull of their hometown’s music scene.

The mention of “little kids growing up on the skids” speaks to the tough upbringing that many individuals in Cleveland faced. Through all the hardships, music provided an escape and a source of hope. Cleveland rocks became a phrase that represented resilience and the ability to rise above adversity.

The reference to James Dean in the line “Jumping Jene Jene is movie James Dean” adds a touch of fame and glamour to the song. It highlights the impact that rock and roll had on popular culture and how it elevated ordinary individuals to iconic status.

Mama’s indifference to the troubles of the world and her focus on her own worries reflect the daily struggles that people face. The line “Livin’ in sin with a safety pin” captures the rebellious and edgy nature of rock and roll, as well as the disregard for societal norms.

One of the most memorable lines of the song is “I’ve got some records from World War Two, I play ’em just like me granddad do.” This line symbolizes the passing down of a love for music and the connection between generations. It shows that rock and roll is not just a passing fad, but a timeless genre that transcends age and time.

Overall, Cleveland Rocks is an anthem that celebrates the spirit of rock and roll and the resilience of a city. It reminds us of the power of music to unite and inspire, and how a simple phrase can become a symbol of pride and identity.

While Cleveland’s music scene may not be as prominent as it once was, the legacy of Cleveland rocks lives on through songs like this. It serves as a reminder of the rich history and contributions that Cleveland has made to the world of rock and roll.

So whenever I hear the familiar opening chords of Cleveland Rocks, I can’t help but smile and feel a sense of nostalgia. It takes me back to a time when the music was loud, the energy was high, and Cleveland truly rocked.

Credits

Produced By Mick Ronson & Ian Hunter

Written By Ian Hunter

Release Date March 27, 1979

Cleveland Rocks Covers Cleveland Rocks by The Presidents of the United States of America

Tags: Rock, Soundtrack