A Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy

The Kinks

About A Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy

"A Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy" is the lead single and fourth track from The Kinks' 1978 album Misfits. Written by Ray Davies, the song was inspired by the band's then-tumultuous state at the time, with two members leaving the band during the recording of Misfits. Released as the first single from the album, the track was the band's most successful single in years, reaching number 30.


Year:
2006
5:02
217 
#2

Lyrics currently unavailable…


The Kinks

The Kinks were an English rock band formed in Muswell Hill, North London, by brothers Ray and Dave Davies in 1964. Categorised in the United States as a British Invasion band, the Kinks are recognised as one of the most important and influential rock groups of the era. Their music was influenced by a wide range of genres, including rhythm and blues, British music hall, folk and country. Ray Davies (lead vocals, rhythm guitar) and Dave Davies (lead guitar, vocals) remained members throughout the group's 32-year run. Original members Pete Quaife (bass guitar, vocals) and Mick Avory (drums and percussion) were replaced by John Dalton in 1969 and Bob Henrit in 1984, respectively. Dalton was in turn replaced by Jim Rodford in 1978. Keyboardist Nicky Hopkins accomp… more »

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12 facts about this song

Release Information
"A Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy" was released in 1978 as a part of The Kinks' album "Misfits."
Chart Success
The song enjoyed considerable chart success and became their most successful US single in years, peaking at number 30 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Album's Concept
The song, much like the rest of the "Misfits" album, delves into themes of disillusionment, alienation, and feeling out of place.
Line-up Changes
It was one of the first Kinks songs featuring the band's new keyboardist, Gordon Edwards, following the departure of John Gosling.
British Context
Interestingly, despite its success in the US, the song didn't chart in the UK. This replicates a common pattern for The Kinks, who often found more success across the Atlantic than at home.
Song's Composition
It is composed in the key of F Major, with a tempo of 134 beats per minute, giving the song a lively, upbeat feel.
Reception
Music critics revered the song, considering its powerful riffs and catchy lyrics as some of the finest work of The Kinks in the late 1970s.
Song's Inspiration
"A Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy" speaks about a fan named Dan, who finds solace in the music of his favorite band, The Kinks, suggesting that rock ‘n’ roll itself is a kind of fantasy realm.
Follow-up Single
This song was followed up by another successful US single, "A Gallon of Gas," suggesting a late-period return to form and popularity for The Kinks in America.
Song's Length
With a running time of 4 minutes and 59 seconds, "A Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy" is one of the longer tracks on "Misfits."
Song's Video
Although there's not an official music video for "A Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy", the song is often represented with live performances video clips of The Kinks.
Notable Performances
Despite not being one of their most famous songs in Britain, "A Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy" is often a staple of The Kinks' live performances.

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    A Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy

    4,557
    79     3

    Top Hot 100 Songs 1978

    Billboard #30


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