About
Background
- Not an Original: “Time Is on My Side” was originally written by Jerry Ragovoy under the pseudonym Norman Meade. It first appeared in a jazz instrumental version by Kai Winding and his orchestra in 1963. Soul singer Irma Thomas offered a vocal rendition later that year.
- The Stones’ Discovery: The Rolling Stones’ discovered the song through Irma Thomas’ version, drawn to its raw blues edge and the defiant energy in her vocals.
- Two Versions: The band recorded “Time Is on My Side” twice. The first, featuring a distinctive organ intro, became their initial breakout hit in the US. A second version appears on some UK albums.
Themes
The song explores several core themes:
- Youthful Confidence: The lyrics exude a youthful arrogance suggesting the singer is sure of his ability to eventually win over a hesitant lover. Time, he believes, will work in his favor.
- Rejection and Resilience: The song hints at past romantic rejections or disappointments. Yet, the overriding feeling is one of persistence and optimism, believing things will change with time.
- Fleetingness of Love (and Life): A subtler theme lies in the acknowledgment that love can be fickle. The singer seems aware that even when he does win his love, her affection, and thus his own happiness, might be temporary.
Lyrics
Here’s a deeper look at some memorable lines:
- “Time is on my side, yes it is”: This central hook is a bold declaration of confidence. It establishes the song’s main premise – he’s not worried about the current situation.
- “You’ll come runnin’ back”: This line expresses certainty about his eventual success, though it might have a slightly possessive undertone.
- “I’ll make you mine, mine”: This underscores a sense of determination bordering on obsession.
Impact of “Time Is on My Side”
The Rolling Stones’ version of “Time is on My Side” is considered a rock and roll classic. It helped establish their image as a slightly rebellious, blues-influenced rock band. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its catchy melody, relatable themes, and perhaps a touch of that youthful bravado many listeners find appealing.
Video
Lyric
Time is on my side, yes it isTime is on my side, yes it is
Now you always sayThat you want to be freeBut you’ll come running back (said you would baby)You’ll come running back (I said so many times before)You’ll come running back to me
Yeah, time is on my side, yes it isTime is on my side, yes it is
You’re searching for good timesBut just wait and seeYou’ll come running back (I said, don’t worry darling)You’ll come running back (spend the rest of my life with you, baby)You’ll come running back to me
Go ahead baby, go aheadGo ahead and light up the townAnd baby, I do anything your heart desires, rememberI’ll always be aroundAnd I know, I knowLike I told you so many times beforeYou’re gonna come backYeah, you you’re gonna come back babyKnockin’, yeah, knocking right on my doorYes
Time is on my side, yes it isTime is on my side, yes it is
‘Cause I got the real loveThe kind that you needYou’ll come running back (I knew you would one day)You’ll come running back (like I told you before)You’ll come running back to me
Yeah, time, time, time is on my side, yes it isI said, time, time, time is on my side, yes it isI said, time, time, time is on my side