Jamaica Say You Will

Jackson Browne

About Jamaica Say You Will

"Jamaica Say You Will" (alternately "Jamaica, Say You Will") is a song written and performed by American singer-songwriter Jackson Browne. It is the first song on his 1972 self-titled debut album.


Year:
2004
3:24
86 
#2

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Jamaica was the lovely one
I played her well
As we lay in the tall grass
Where the shadows fell
Hiding from the children
So they would not tell
We would stay there
'Til her sister rang
The evening bell

Jamaica, say you will
Help me find a way to fill
These empty hours
Say you will
Come again tomorrow

The daughter of a captain
On the rolling seas
She would stare across
The water from the trees
Last time he was home
He held her on his knees
And said, The next time
They would sail away
Just where they pleased

Jamaica, say you will
Help me find a way to fill
These lifeless sails
And stay until
My ships can find the sea

Jamaica was a sweet young one
I loved her true
She was a comfort
And a mercy through and through
Hiding from this world together
Next thing I knew
We had brought her things
Down to the bay, what could I do

Jamaica, say you will
Help me find a way to fill
These sails
And we will sail until
Our waters have run dry

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Jackson Browne

Clyde Jackson Browne (born October 9, 1948) is an American singer-songwriter and musician who has sold over 17 million albums in the United States alone. more »

17 fans

Written by: Jackson Browne

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


22 facts about this song

Album Release
"Jamaica Say You Will" is a song from Jackson Browne's debut album, "Jackson Browne (Saturate Before Using)", released in 1972.
Song Position
It holds the third position in the album's track list.
Song Interpretation
The song lyrics spin a tale of a young pirate sailor and his love, Jamaica. The metaphorical touch to the lyrics suggests Browne's heartfelt longing for a lost love.
Song Genres
The song falls under the genres of folk-rock, and singer-songwriter, which were Browne's predominant styles.
Music Composition
The song shows off the signature style of Jackson Browne, fusing folk with an essence of rock, making it a musically appealing composition.
Song Duration
"Jamaica Say You Will" has a duration of 3 minutes and 23 seconds.
Cover Versions
The song has been covered by multiple artists, including Tom Rush and the Byrds.
Album's Success
Jackson Browne's debut album, which includes "Jamaica Say You Will", was a commercial and critical success, reaching 53rd position on Billboard’s Pop Albums chart.
Influence of the Song
Despite not becoming a hit in its own right, "Jamaica Say You Will" has vividly influenced Browne's songwriting abilities, becoming a stepping stone for his successful career in the future.
Live Performances
Jackson Browne loved performing this track on live shows, and there are numerous live versions of the song available, showcasing his incredible passion for music.
Album Appearance
"Jamaica Say You Will" is a song from Jackson Browne's self-titled debut studio album, commonly referred to as "Saturate Before Using".
Release Year
The song, along with the debut album, was released in 1972.
Songwriter
Jackson Browne is the sole writer of "Jamaica Say You Will."
Song Interpretation
The song tells a story about a sailor and his relationship with a girl named Jamaica. Some interpretations suggest the song is a metaphor for Browne's relationship with the music industry.
Cover Versions
The song has been covered by various artists over the years, with notable renditions by The Byrds frontman Chris Hillman and country group The South Austin Jug Band.
Various Performances
Throughout his career, Browne has performed the song live many times, showcasing different arrangements and interpretations of the song.
Sound Production
The song, like most songs on the debut album, was produced by Richard Sanford Orshoff.
Genre Classification
"Jamaica Say You Will" can be classified as a folk-rock song, blending traditional folk storytelling with contemporary rock music sensibilities.
Album Performance
The album featuring the song "Jamaica Say You Will," debuted at No. 53 on Billboard’s Pop Albums chart and later climbed to No. 14, being certified Platinum.
Inspirational Influence
The song and its lyrics are often praised for their narrative quality, with some suggesting that it helped inspire the '70s singer-songwriter movement.
Song Length
The official album version of "Jamaica Say You Will" clocks in at 3:25 minutes.
Critical Reception
Though not a commercial hit as a stand-alone single, the song is often singled out by critics for its poetic and captivating storytelling.

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