Patti Smith – Dancing Barefoot

About the song

Patti Smith’s “Dancing Barefoot” is a timeless masterpiece that encapsulates the raw essence of rock and roll while delving into profound themes of freedom, self-expression, and human connection. Released in 1979 as part of her album “Wave,” this iconic track remains a beloved staple in the world of music, captivating listeners with its haunting melodies and poetic lyrics.

As one of the pioneering figures of the punk rock movement, Patti Smith infuses “Dancing Barefoot” with her signature blend of rebellious spirit and introspective depth. The song opens with a mesmerizing guitar riff that sets the tone for Smith’s mesmerizing vocals, which oscillate between gentle whispers and powerful declarations.

Lyrically, “Dancing Barefoot” is a work of artistry. Smith’s evocative words paint vivid images of a surreal dance, where the protagonist sheds societal constraints and embraces a primal, uninhibited existence. The imagery of dancing barefoot symbolizes a return to nature, a stripping away of artificial barriers to reveal one’s true self.

What sets this song apart is its ability to resonate on multiple levels. On the surface, it’s a captivating rock anthem with infectious energy, but beneath the surface, it carries a profound message about the human experience. Themes of love, longing, and the search for meaning intertwine, creating a rich tapestry of emotions that listeners can immerse themselves in.

Moreover, Patti Smith’s delivery is nothing short of captivating. Her distinctive voice carries a sense of urgency and authenticity, drawing listeners into the song’s narrative with every verse. The instrumentation, including the pulsating rhythm section and ethereal guitar work, complements Smith’s vocals perfectly, creating a sonic landscape that is both ethereal and grounded.

“Dancing Barefoot” has stood the test of time, continuing to inspire new generations of listeners with its timeless appeal. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Patti Smith or a newcomer to her music, this song is sure to leave a lasting impression, showcasing the enduring power of art to touch the soul and ignite the imagination.

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Lyrics

She is benediction
She is addicted to thee
She is the root connection
She is connecting with he

Here I go and I don’t know why
I fell so ceaselessly
Could it be he’s taking over me

I’m dancing barefoot
Heading for a spin
Some strange music draws me in
Makes me come on like some heroine

She is sublimation
She is the essence of thee
She is concentrating on he
Chosen by she

Here I go and I don’t know why
I spin so ceaselessly
Could it be he’s taking over me

I’m dancing barefoot
Heading for a spin
Some strange music draws me in
Makes me come on like some heroine

She is re-creation
She, intoxicated by Thee
She has the slow sensation that
He is levitating with she

Here I go and I don’t know why
I spin so ceaselessly
Till I lose my sense of gravity

I’m dancing barefoot
Heading for a spin
Some strange music draws me in
Makes me come on like some heroine

Oh God, I fell for You

The plot of our life sweats in the dark like a face
The mystery of childbirth, of childhood itself
Grave visitations
What is it that calls to us?

Why must we pray screaming?
Why must not death be redefined?
We shut our eyes, we stretch out our arms
And whirl on a pane of glass

An afixiation, a fix on anything
The line of life, the limb of a tree
The hands of he and the promise that she
Is blessed among women

Oh God, I fell for You
Oh God, I fell for You
Oh God, I fell for You