Drift Away

Uncle Kracker, Dobie Gray

About Drift Away

"Drift Away" is a song by Mentor Williams written in 1970 and originally recorded by John Henry Kurtz on his 1972 album Reunion. Mentor Williams was a country songwriter, and John Henry Kurtz was an actor and swamp rock singer. It was later given to soul singer Dobie Gray for whom it became a surprise international hit; and the best known version. In 1973 the song became Dobie Gray's biggest hit, peaking at #5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and certified gold by the RIAA. It was the final pop hit for Decca Records in the United States. A new version by Uncle Kracker, with Gray, became a major hit in 2003. 


Year:
2002
4:15
2,008 
#5

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Day after day I'm more confused
Yet I look for the light in the pouring rain
You know that's a game that I hate to lose
I'm feelin' the strain, ain't it a shame

Oh, give me the beat, boys, and free my soul
I wanna get lost in your rock and roll and drift away
Oh, give me the beat, boys, and free my soul
I wanna get lost in your rock and roll and drift away
(Won't you take me away?)

Beginning to think that I'm wastin' time
I don't understand the things I do
The world outside looks so unkind
I'm countin' on you to carry me through

And when my mind is free
You know a melody can move me
And when I'm feelin' blue
The guitar's comin' through to soothe me
Thanks for the joy that you've given me
I want you to know I believe in your song
Rhythm and rhyme and harmony
You help me along makin' me strong

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Dobie Gray

Dobie Gray (July 26, 1940 – December 6, 2011) was an American singer and songwriter, whose musical career spanned soul, country, pop, and musical theater. His hit records included "The 'In' Crowd" in 1965 and "Drift Away", which was one of the biggest hits of 1973, sold over one million copies, and remains a staple of radio airplay. more »

1 fan

Written by: Mentor R. Williams

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Song History
"Drift Away" is a song by Dobie Gray, originally released in 1973. It was written by Mentor Williams and became Gray's biggest hit, peaking at number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Genre Classification
The song is often cited as a prime example of the genre of soft rock.
Cover Versions
"Drift Away" has been covered by countless artists from diverse genres, including Rod Stewart, Roy Orbison, and Ray Charles. In 2003, Uncle Kracker's version of the song became a major hit, featuring Dobie Gray on backing vocals.
Song Lyrics
The lyrics of "Drift Away" contain the line "Give me the beat, boys, and free my soul," which has become one of the most recognizable lines in pop music.
Commercial Success
Despite having many other tracks, "Drift Away" remained Dobie Gray's signature song and main source of success.
Song's Influence
The song retained its popularity over the years and is often used in movies and TV shows. It's a staple of classic rock and oldies radio station playlists.
Song Writing
The song was written by Mentor Williams, the brother of renowned songwriter and musician, Paul Williams.
Billboard Rankings
"Drift Away" spent a total of 28 weeks on the Billboard Chart, which is an impressive accomplishment for any song.
Grammy Awards
While the song didn't win any Grammy awards, it received considerable airplay and is still beloved by fans to this day.
Dobie Gray's Legacy
Dobie Gray passed away in 2011, but his song "Drift Away" continues to resonate with fans, demonstrating the enduring appeal of this classic track.

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    Drift Away

    64.4M
    353.3K     20,397

    Top Hot 100 Songs 1973

    Billboard #5


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