EDEN's song 'rock + roll' reflects on the artist's desire to live a life marked by genuine expression and to leave a legacy that mirrors the impactful lives of his influences such as Frank Sinatra and Jimi Hendrix. The song also contemplates fame, artistry, and the concept of living fully, even in the absence of an afterlife.
Starting off, 'rock + roll' presents EDEN grapplying with a sense of identity and aspiration. The opening verse sets a tone of introspection, with the artist explaining that he doesn't want superficial recognition; he prefers to handle his darker moments independently. This verse serves as a prelude to a larger contemplation about the meaning of success and the nature of legacy.
The chorus lifts the listener into a space of ambition and nostalgia, as EDEN expresses a wish to embody the iconic carefree spirit of figures like Frank Sinatra and the revolutionary artistry of Jimi Hendrix. These lines reveal an emotional struggle between the desire for timeless recognition and the recognition of one's fleeting presence in the world.
In the second verse and bridge, there's a palpable frustration with the ephemeral nature of fame and a music industry that feels disingenuous. EDEN admits to a cycle of exhausting promotion and performance, acknowledging his own vulnerability to this system while striving to maintain authenticity.
Moving towards the song's conclusion, the emotional tone becomes simultaneously defiant and philosophical. The idea of burning out young is juxtaposed with a dramatic personal declaration: EDEN is not afraid to live on his own terms, even amid the shallow aspects of life symbolized by the phrase 'sex, drugs, and rock and roll.'
"'Cause I just wanna swing like Sinatra"
Frank Sinatra is an iconic figure in music history known for his strong, carefree vocal style. EDEN's reference to wanting to 'swing like Sinatra' encapsulates a desire to live freely and passionately.
"And maybe I could play guitar like Hendrix"
Legendary guitarist Jimi Hendrix is renowned for his pioneering electric guitar playing. EDEN's wish to play guitar like Hendrix signifies an aspiration to achieve artistic greatness and innovation.
"'Cause I could never rock like a Rolling Stone"
The Rolling Stones are emblematic of rock-and-roll fame and lifestyle. By saying he 'could never rock like a Rolling Stone', EDEN acknowledges a feeling of being outside that traditional path of stardom, indicating a search for alternative forms of recognition.
"No, I ain't scared of livin'"
This line conveys a fearless approach to life, indicating EDEN's rejection of fear as a barrier to living meaningfully and authentically.