About the song
There’s something undeniably nostalgic and comforting about the sound of The Everly Brothers. Their close harmonies and heartfelt lyrics have captivated audiences for generations. And among their many timeless classics, “Lay, Lady, Lay” stands out as a particularly poignant and beautiful ballad.
Released in 1969, “Lay, Lady, Lay” was a departure from the duo’s earlier, more upbeat material. This slower, more introspective track showcases the brothers’ maturing vocal abilities and their ability to convey a deep emotional depth. The song’s title itself invites listeners to relax, to unwind, and to simply be.
The lyrics, penned by Bob Dylan, paint a vivid picture of a man longing for companionship. The imagery is rich and evocative, filled with references to nature and the passage of time. Dylan’s words, combined with the Everlys’ harmonies, create a sense of longing and yearning that is both universal and deeply personal.
Musically, the song is characterized by its understated elegance. The arrangement is simple yet effective, with a gentle acoustic guitar providing the foundation for the brothers’ vocals. The addition of strings and a subtle pedal steel guitar adds to the song’s lush, dreamy atmosphere.
“Lay, Lady, Lay” is more than just a song; it’s a sonic embrace. It’s a piece of music that invites listeners to slow down, to savor the moment, and to appreciate the simple beauty of life. For those of us who grew up listening to the Everlys, this song holds a special place in our hearts. It’s a reminder of a simpler time, a time when music was meant to be felt as much as it was heard.
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Lyrics
Lay, lady, lay, lay across my big brass bed
Lay, lady, lay, lay across my big brass bed
Whatever colours you have in your mind
I’ll show them to you and you’ll see them shine
Lay, lady, lay, lay across my big brass bed
Stay, lady, stay, stay with your man awhile
Until the break of day, let me see you make him smile
His clothes are dirty but his hands are clean
And you’re the best thing that he’s ever seen
Stay, lady, stay, stay with your man awhile
Why wait any longer for the world to begin
You can have your cake and eat it too
Why wait any longer for the one you love
When he’s standing in front of you
Lay, lady, lay, lay across my big brass bed
Stay, lady, stay, stay while the night is still ahead
I long to see you in the morning light
I long to reach for you in the night
Stay, lady, stay, stay while the night is still ahead
Lay, lady, lay, lay across my big brass bed