Maybe it’s because of the weird weather and not quite knowing what season this is despite meteorologists and calendars proclaiming it’s spring, but I’ve been fluttering between musical genres trying to find the perfect fit in music. Along the way, this song, “Beg Steal or Borrow” by Ray LaMontagne hit. It made me think of those stark slow rock songs of the late ’60s and ’70s but has a current power, made all the richer by just a voice and a guitar.
At the beginning of this particular video of Live Sessions at BBCFour, Ray LaMontagne mentions how describing the origin of song lyrics takes the mystery away, which made me consider that truth in line with poetry. The very best songs and poems allow the listener/reader to relate to them from their own perspective and take from them what they will.
The voice, lyrics, music all just work so well in this song. Have a listen and tell me what you think.
You’ve been howling at the moon like a slack-jawed fool
And breaking every rule they can throw on
But one of these days, it’s gonna be right soon
You’ll find your legs and go and stay gone
Ray LaMontagne
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