About the song
“Turn the Page,” performed by Bob Seger, is a poignant and introspective ballad that captures the life and loneliness of a rock musician on the road. Released in 1973 on the album “Back in ’72,” the song has since become one of Seger’s most enduring and beloved tracks. Written by Bob Seger himself, “Turn the Page” is a reflective narrative that delves into the emotional and physical toll of constant touring and the yearning for connection and understanding.
The song is characterized by its haunting saxophone melody, played by Alto Reed, and Seger’s gravelly, emotive vocals. These elements combine to create an atmosphere that perfectly conveys the sense of isolation and weariness described in the lyrics. “Turn the Page” paints a vivid picture of life on the road, from the repetitive and often grueling nature of traveling between gigs to the fleeting and superficial interactions with strangers and fans.
Though “Turn the Page” was not initially released as a single, it gained immense popularity through Seger’s live performances and was later included in his 1976 live album, “Live Bullet.” This live version brought the song widespread acclaim, showcasing the raw power and emotion that Seger brought to his performances. “Turn the Page” has since become a staple in Bob Seger’s concerts and a favorite among fans, often cited as one of his signature songs.
Over the years, “Turn the Page” has been covered by various artists, most notably by Metallica in 1998, which brought the song to a new generation of listeners. Despite these different interpretations, Seger’s original version remains the definitive take, resonating deeply with anyone who has experienced the challenges of life on the road or the sense of longing and reflection that comes with it.
For long-time fans of Bob Seger and those new to his music, “Turn the Page” is a masterful example of storytelling through song. Its enduring appeal lies in its honest portrayal of the rock musician’s life, capturing the universal themes of loneliness, perseverance, and the quest for meaning. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or someone seeking a deeper connection to music, “Turn the Page” offers a powerful and moving listening experience that stands the test of time.
Video
Lyrics
On a long and lonesome highway
East of Omaha
You can listen to the engine
Moanin’ out his one note song
You can think about the woman
Or the girl you knew the night before
But your thoughts will soon be wandering
The way they always do
When you’re ridin’ sixteen hours
And there’s nothin’ much to do
And you don’t feel much like ridin’
You just wish the trip was through
See here I am
On the road again
There I am
Up on the stage
Here I go
Playin’ star again
There I go
Turn the page
Well you walk into a restaurant
Strung out from the road
And you feel the eyes upon you
As you’re shakin’ off the cold
You pretend it doesn’t bother you
But you just want to explode
Most times you can’t hear ’em talk
Other times you can
All the same old cliches
“Is that a woman or a man?”
And you always seem outnumbered
You don’t dare make a stand
Here I am
On the road again
There I am
Up on the stage
Here I go
Playin’ star again
There I go
Turn the page
Out there in the spotlight
You’re a million miles away
Every ounce of energy
You try to give away
As the sweat pours out your body
Like the music that you play
Later in the evening
As you lie awake in bed
With the echoes from the amplifiers
Ringin’ in your head
You smoke the day’s last cigarette
Rememberin’ what she said
Here I am
On the road again
There I am
Up on the stage
Here I go
Playin’ star again
There I go
Turn the page
Here I am
On the road again
There I am
Up on the stage
Here I go
Playin’ star again
There I go
There I go