About the song
“Sail On,” a hit single by the Commodores, is a quintessential track that captures the essence of late 1970s soul and R&B. Released in 1979, “Sail On” is a standout song from the album “Midnight Magic.” Written by Lionel Richie, one of the band’s most prominent members, the song exemplifies the smooth, melodic style that made the Commodores a household name.
The Commodores, known for their versatility in creating both upbeat funk tracks and soulful ballads, truly shine in “Sail On.” The song’s lyrics tell a poignant story of heartbreak and moving on, wrapped in a mellow, easy-listening melody that struck a chord with many listeners. Richie’s emotive vocals, coupled with the band’s seamless instrumentation, make “Sail On” a memorable anthem of the era.
Upon its release, “Sail On” quickly gained popularity, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and securing the number eight spot on the Billboard R&B Singles chart. Its success wasn’t limited to the United States; the song also charted internationally, showcasing the Commodores’ global appeal.
“Sail On” marked a significant point in the Commodores’ career, coming at a time when Lionel Richie was beginning to emerge as a solo artist. The song’s reflective tone and relatable lyrics about letting go resonated with a wide audience, further solidifying the band’s reputation for creating timeless music.
The album “Midnight Magic,” which features “Sail On,” is notable for its mix of energetic tracks and soulful ballads, reflecting the diverse talents of the Commodores. The song remains a beloved classic, often evoking a sense of nostalgia and appreciation among fans who remember the golden days of soul and R&B.
For long-time listeners and new fans alike, “Sail On” is a testament to the enduring talent and emotional depth of the Commodores, showcasing their ability to craft songs that are both deeply personal and universally relatable.
Video
Lyrics
Sail on down the line
‘Bout a half a mile or so
And I don’t really wanna know
Where you’re going
Maybe once or twice, you see
Time after time I tried to
To hold on to what we got
But now you’re goin’
And I don’t mind about
The things you’re gonna say, Lord
I gave all my money and my time
I know it’s a shame
But I’m giving you back your name
Yeah, yeah
Guess I’ll be on my way
I won’t be back to stay
I guess I’ll move along
I’m looking for a good time
Sail on down the line
Ain’t it funny how the time can go
Friends say they told me so
But it doesn’t matter
It was plain to see that
A small town boy like me
Just wasn’t your cup of tea
I was wishful thinkin’
I gave you my heart
And I tried to make you happy
And you gave me nothin’ in return
You know, it ain’t so hard to say
“Would you please just go away”
Yeah, yeah
I’ve thrown away the blues
I’m tired of being used
I want everyone to know
I’m a-lookin’ for a good time
Good time, yeah
Whoa, sail on, honey
Good times never felt so good
Sail on, honey
Good times never felt so good
Sail on, sugar
Good times never felt so good
Sail on