Story Behind The Song
A young man's trip to California changes him
| Song Length |
3:32 |
Genre |
Folk - Americana |
| Tempo |
Medium Slow (91 - 110) |
Lead Vocal |
Male Vocal |
| Mood |
Tranquil |
Subject |
Change, State |
| Similar Artists |
Leonard Cohen |
Language |
English |
| Era |
1970 - 1979 |
| |
Lyrics
Goodbye California
Goodbye California
you know you weren't my style
Traveled west when I was young
Just to see your smile
Now I know you weren't right
The one I was looking for
You figured it out I was naive
and then you shut the door
Goodbye California
it happened so long ago
You were that 70s child
You sure put on a show
I froze in my tracks, I couldn't leave town
Hopelessly spinning, on the merry-go-round
Goodbye California
you whispered in my ear
"Follow me down, to the golden gate--
you sure have nothing to fear"
You pushed me hard on that primrose path
sure didn't hesitate
I turned around and you were gone
Was this my infernal fate?
Goodbye California you took me for a ride
Thought I had all the answers
But it was just my pride
I needed you badly, I wanted to dance
Where was it written: no second chance?
Looked in the mirror, what did I see?
All my illusions were spent
Now it was clear I was alone
in my summer of discontent
(Instrumental)
Goodbye California, you stamped out all my dreams
I was young and soon found out
life isn't what it seems
Goodbye California
I've grown up a lot since then
If I happen to see you around
I'll still call you my friend
I am so grateful
now you know why
the lessons you taught me
have opened my eyes
Goodbye California
you know you weren't my style
Traveled west when I was young
Just to see your smile