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Golden Oldies

“Between the whispering headstones of Highgate Cemetery, a teenage Rod Stewart felt more alive with a novel in his hands than a shovel in his grasp. Long before his raspy vocals topped the charts, he spent his youth digging graves to pay the bills—only to confess later that fear of the lonely silence drove him to sneak into those freshly opened plots and lose himself in books instead of filling them, a mischievous habit that perfectly foreshadowed the wild charm he’d bring to stages around the world. That fearless, rule-defying spark you hear in the timeless anthem “Young Turks” by Rod Stewart is the same restless energy that turned a cemetery escape into the launchpad for his rock’n’roll legacy.

“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”

Introduction

“Young Turks” is a song by British rock singer Rod Stewart, released as the lead single from his 1981 album “Tonight I’m Yours.” The song is notable for its energetic beat and catchy melody, which helped it become a major hit in the early 1980s. “Young Turks” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries and becoming one of Stewart’s most enduring songs. Its themes of youthful rebellion and the desire for freedom resonate with listeners, making it a timeless anthem for those seeking to break free from societal constraints.

The song’s title, “Young Turks,” refers to a term used to describe young people eager for change and reform. The lyrics tell the story of a young couple running away to create their own future, embodying the spirit of independence and adventure. With its upbeat tempo and relatable narrative, “Young Turks” captures the essence of youthful exuberance and the pursuit of dreams.

About The Composition

  • Title: Young Turks
  • Composer: Rod Stewart, Carmine Appice, Duane Hitchings, Kevin Savigar
  • Premiere Date: September 1981
  • Album/Opus/Collection: Tonight I’m Yours
  • Genre: Synth-pop, New Wave

Background

“Young Turks” was released during a period when Rod Stewart was experimenting with different musical styles, including the growing synth-pop and new wave movements. The song reflects this shift, incorporating synthesizers and electronic elements that were characteristic of early 1980s pop music. Co-written with Carmine Appice, Duane Hitchings, and Kevin Savigar, the track blends Stewart’s distinctive raspy vocals with a modern sound that appealed to a wide audience.

The song’s narrative focuses on a young couple named Billy and Patti, who leave their old lives behind to start anew. This storyline mirrored the aspirations of many young people at the time, seeking autonomy and a break from traditional expectations. The combination of relatable lyrics and a fresh musical approach contributed to the song’s widespread popularity.

Musical Style

“Young Turks” is characterized by its upbeat tempo and prominent use of synthesizers, which were increasingly popular in the early 1980s. The song’s catchy melody is driven by electronic percussion and a pulsating bassline, creating a danceable rhythm that complements Stewart’s energetic vocal delivery. The fusion of rock and new wave elements in “Young Turks” showcases Stewart’s ability to adapt to changing musical trends while maintaining his unique style.

Lyrics/Libretto

The lyrics of “Young Turks” revolve around the themes of youthful rebellion and the pursuit of freedom. The song tells the story of a young couple determined to live life on their own terms, highlighting the desire for independence and adventure. The narrative emphasizes the importance of taking risks to achieve personal happiness, resonating with listeners who share similar aspirations.

Performance History

“Young Turks” has been a staple in Rod Stewart’s live performances since its release. It is often included in his concert setlists, where its lively tempo and engaging lyrics energize audiences. The song’s infectious beat and relatable story make it a crowd favorite, and Stewart’s charismatic stage presence adds to its enduring appeal during live shows.

Cultural Impact

Over the years, “Young Turks” has made several appearances in popular media, further cementing its place in popular culture. The song’s themes of rebellion and freedom have been featured in films, television shows, and commercials, often serving as an anthem for characters who defy convention. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its impact on multiple generations.

Legacy

“Young Turks” remains an iconic song in Rod Stewart’s catalog, celebrated for its timeless appeal and relatable message. Its influence extends beyond the music charts, resonating with audiences who appreciate its themes of independence and self-determination. The song continues to be a source of inspiration for those who dare to pursue their dreams, solidifying its legacy as a classic rock anthem.

Conclusion

“Young Turks” by Rod Stewart is a vibrant and enduring piece of music history that captures the spirit of youth and freedom. Its blend of catchy melodies and meaningful lyrics invites listeners to explore their own paths to independence. For anyone interested in the evolution of pop and rock music, “Young Turks” offers a glimpse into a transformative era, encouraging further exploration of its themes and impact.

Video

Lyrics

Billy left his home with a dollar in his pocket and a head full of dreams
He said somehow, some way, it’s gotta get better than this
Patti packed her bags, left a note for her mama, she was just seventeen
There were tears in her eyes when she kissed her little sister goodbye
They held each other tight as they drove on through the night, they were so excited
We got but one shot at life, let’s take it while we’re still not afraid
Because life is so brief and time is a thief when you’re undecided
And like a fistful of sand, it can slip right through your hands
Young hearts be free tonight
Time is on your side
Don’t let ’em put you down, don’t let ’em push you around
Don’t let ’em ever change your point of view
Paradise was closed so they headed for the coast in a blissful manner
They took a two room apartment that was jumping every night of the week
Happiness was found in each other’s arms as expected, yeah
Billy pierced his ears, drove a pickup like a lunatic, ooh
Young hearts be free tonight
Time is on your side
Don’t let ’em put you down, don’t let ’em push you around
Don’t let ’em ever change your point of view
Come on Billy
Woo
Young heart, be free tonight
Time is on, on your side
Billy wrote a letter back home to Patti’s parents tryin’ to explain
He said we’re both real sorry that it had to turn out this way
But there ain’t no point in talking when there’s nobody listening, so we just ran away
Patti gave birth to a ten pound baby boy, yeah
Young hearts be free tonight
Time is on your side
Young hearts be free tonight
Time is on your side
Young hearts be free tonight
Time in on your side
Young hearts gotta run free, be free, live free
Time is on, time is on your side
Time, time, time, time is on your side
Is on your side, is on your side
Young heart be free tonight
Tonight, tonight, tonight, tonight, yeah
Ooh, ooh, ooh

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