Justin Timberlake

Justin Timberlake avatar image
checked
Sailing album cover

Sailing

Justin Timberlake

Lyrics

[Intro: Harmonization]

[Verse 1: JC with All]
Well, it's not far down to paradise
At least it's not for me
And if the wind is right, you can sail away
And find tranquility
Oh, the canvas can do miracles
Just you wait and see
Baby, believe me
Oh oh oh oh
It's not far to Never Never Land
No reason to pretend
And if the wind is right you can find the joy
Of innocence again
Oh, the canvas can do miracles
Just you wait and see
Baby, believe me
Oh...

[Chorus: All, Justin, JC]
Sailing (takes me away)
Takes me away to where I've always heard it could be
I heard it could be
Just a dream and a wind to carry me
Soon I will be free...
Soon I will be free... yeah
[Verse 2: JC]
Fantasy, it gets the best of me
When I'm sailing
Sailing
All caught up in a reverie
Every word is a symphony
Won't you believe me?
Oh...

[Chorus: All, Justin, JC]
Sailing (takes me away)
Takes me away to where I've always heard it could be
(Takes me away to where I wanna be...)
I heard it could be
Just a dream and a wind to carry me
Soon I will be free...
Soon I will be free...
[Harmony Breakdown]
(Lance: Dum)
All: Ah ah ah...
(Lance: Dum)
All: Da da da...
Ooh... ah ah ah
(Lance: Dum)
Chris, JC & Justin: Ah ah ah...
(Joey: Ah ah ah ah...)
All: Da da da, ooh ooh
(Chris: Da da da)
All: Ooh ah ah ah
(Chris & JC: Ah... Justin: ah... Joey & Lance: ah...)
[Verse 3: JC]
Well, it's not far back to sanity
At least it's not for me
And if the wind is right you can sail away
And find serenity
Oh, the canvas can do miracles
Just you wait and see
Baby, believe me
Oh...
Sailing...

[Chorus: All, Justin, JC]
Sailing (takes me away)
Takes me away (takes me away)
To where I've always heard it could be
(I heard it could be)
I heard it could be
Just a dream and a wind to carry me
Soon I will be free...
Soon I will be free...
Free...
Sailing (takes me away)
Takes me away to where I've always heard it could be
(I heard it could be)
I heard it could be
Just a dream and a wind to carry me
Soon I will be free...
Soon I will be free... yeahEmbed

Justin Timberlake image

Have you ever experienced the feeling of being adrift on a vast, open sea? The wind gently caressing your face as you navigate through the unknown waters, searching for your destination? This is the imagery that immediately comes to mind when listening to the captivating song, "Sailing" by *NSYNC. Released in 2001 as a part of their third studio album, "Celebrity," this mesmerizing track showcases the incredible vocal harmonies and emotive storytelling that *NSYNC is renowned for. In this descriptive analysis, we will delve into the heart of "Sailing" and explore the lyrical depth, musical arrangement, and overall impact of this timeless ballad.

About Sailing

"Sailing" is a poignant ballad that explores the theme of solitude and self-reflection. Written by legendary songwriter and producer Christopher Cross, this track was originally released by Cross himself in 1980 and achieved significant success, including winning the Grammy Award for Song of the Year and Record of the Year. Building upon the foundations laid by Cross, *NSYNC brings their unique flair to the song, infusing it with their trademark harmonies and contemporary pop sensibilities.

The lyrics of "Sailing" paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with their own emotions, seeking solace and clarity in the vastness of the sea. As the song unfolds, the listener is taken on a journey of self-discovery, encapsulated in lines such as, "Well, it's not far back to sanity, at least it's not for me, and when the wind is right, you can sail away and find serenity." These evocative words resonate with anyone who has ever yearned for a moment of tranquility amidst the chaos of life.

It is the vocal performance of *NSYNC that truly elevates "Sailing" to new heights. The group's impeccable harmonies and emotive delivery convey the raw emotions embedded within the lyrics, allowing listeners to connect with the song on a profound level. From the soothing, dulcet tones of Justin Timberlake to the passionate vocal prowess of JC Chasez, each member of *NSYNC brings their unique color to the collective sound, creating a sonic tapestry that is both captivating and emotionally charged.

The musical arrangement of "Sailing" further adds to its allure. The gentle sway of the piano, accompanied by delicate string orchestrations, crafts an ethereal atmosphere, perfectly mirroring the ebb and flow of the sea. The restrained yet powerful drum beats and lingering guitar melodies provide a solid foundation that allows the vocals to shine brightly, while subtle nuances, such as the melancholic flute interludes, add an additional layer of emotional depth to the composition.

One of the most remarkable aspects of "Sailing" is its ability to transcend time and connect with listeners of all generations. Originally written and released in the early 1980s, the universal themes explored in the song remain relevant and relatable even decades later. The enduring appeal of "Sailing" lies not only in its musical brilliance but also in its ability to evoke a sense of introspection and contemplation in those who lend an ear to its melodic enchantment.

In closing, "Sailing" by *NSYNC is a true masterpiece, resonating with its listeners through its lyrical depth, mesmerizing vocal performances, and exquisite musical arrangement. Its timeless quality and ability to stir emotions make it a standout track in the band's discography, firmly establishing itself as a classic ballad that continues to captivate audiences. So, take a moment to set sail with *NSYNC and be swept away by the ethereal beauty of "Sailing."