Tuesday, February 03, 2009

Green Grass and High Tides

When it comes to music, the sky is the limit. I can dig everything from Gregorian Chants to New Wave; from Bach to Bachman Turner Overdrive. This rather large repertoire of music preferences makes any list on my iPod a bit of an oddity to the average consumer of music. One exercise in which I engage is to discover music or lyrics that have, either intentionally or unintentionally, a spiritual theme.

One song that I haven't been able to get out of my head of late is the classic rock song, Green Grass and High Tides, by Southern Rock band, The Outlaws. Contrary to popular belief, the song is NOT about marijuana use. The term, "green grass," in the title gave rise to this unfortunate rumor. Outlaws member, Henry Paul, explains the song's lyrics here.

Personally, the song reminds me of visions of a restored universe and eternity with Jesus Christ and the saints. Consider the lyrics:

In a place you only dream of
Where your soul is always free
Silver stages, golden curtains
Filled my head, plain as can be
As a rainbow grew round the sun
All the stars I've loved who died
Came from somewhere beyond the scene you see
These lovely people played just for me

Now if I let you see this place
Where stories all ring true
Will you let me past your face
To see what's really you
It's not for me to ask these questions
As though I were a king
For you have to love, believe and feel
Before the burst of tambourines take you there

Green grass and high tides forever
Castles of stone souls and glory
Lost faces say we adore you
As kings and queens bow and play for you
Those who don't believe me
Find your souls and set them free
Those who do, believe and love
As time will be your key
Time and time again I've thanked them
For the peace of mind
They helped me find myself
Amongst the music and the rhyme
That enchants you there

Green grass and high tides forever
Castles of stone souls and glory
Lost faces say we adore you
As kings and queens bow and play for you

Yeah, they play just for you

Billy Belk