About the song
“Crystal Blue Persuasion” by Tommy James and the Shondells is a mesmerizing blend of psychedelic rock and pop that emerged as a standout hit in 1969. This song, known for its ethereal sound and mystical lyrics, remains a cherished piece of music from the late 1960s.
Written by Tommy James, Mike Vale, and Eddie Gray, “Crystal Blue Persuasion” was featured on the album “Crimson & Clover,” released in 1969. The album and its title track had already solidified the band’s reputation, but “Crystal Blue Persuasion” further elevated their status with its unique musical style and evocative lyrics.
Upon its release, “Crystal Blue Persuasion” achieved significant success on the charts, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. Its popularity extended beyond the U.S., making it a hit in Canada and other countries as well. The song’s gentle rhythm, lush instrumentation, and Tommy James’ soulful vocals contributed to its widespread appeal.
Tommy James and the Shondells, hailing from Niles, Michigan, were known for their innovative approach to rock music, incorporating elements of psychedelia and pop into their sound. Prior to “Crystal Blue Persuasion,” they had already garnered attention with hits like “Hanky Panky” and “Mony Mony,” but this song showcased a more introspective and atmospheric side of their musical repertoire.
The enduring appeal of “Crystal Blue Persuasion” lies in its timeless quality and universal themes of peace, love, and spiritual awakening. Its lyrics evoke a sense of tranquility and introspection, while the music creates an immersive listening experience that resonates with listeners across generations.
Over the years, “Crystal Blue Persuasion” has been covered by various artists and featured in films, television shows, and commercials, attesting to its lasting impact on popular culture. Its inclusion in retrospectives and playlists dedicated to the 1960s further cements its status as a classic of the era.
In conclusion, “Crystal Blue Persuasion” by Tommy James and the Shondells is not just a song, but a timeless piece of musical artistry that continues to captivate listeners with its ethereal beauty and introspective lyrics. Its enduring popularity underscores its significance in the landscape of psychedelic rock and its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia while remaining relevant in today’s musical landscape.
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Lyrics
Look over yonder
What do you see?
The sun is a-rising
Most definitely
A new day is coming (ooh, ooh)
People are changing
Ain’t it beautiful? (Ooh, ooh)
Crystal blue persuasion
Better get ready to see the light
Love, love is the answer (ooh, ooh)
And that’s all right
So don’t you give up now (ooh, ooh)
So easy to find
Just look to your soul (your soul)
And open your mind
Crystal blue persuasion, hmm, hmm
It’s a new vibration
Crystal blue persuasion
Crystal
Blue persuasion
Maybe tomorrow
When he looks down
On every green field (ooh, ooh)
And every town
All of his children
And every nation
There’ll be peace and good brotherhood
Crystal blue persuasion, yeah
Crystal blue persuasion, aah-aah
Crystal blue persuasion, aah-aah
(Crystal blue persuasion, aah-aah)