Rod Stewart

Lyrics

[Intro]
Oh yeah

[Verse 1]
In these days of changing ways
So-called liberated days
A story comes to mind of a friend of mine
Georgie boy was gay I guess
Nothin' more or nothin' less
The kindest guy I ever knew
His mother's tears fell in vain
The afternoon George tried to explain
That he needed love like all the rest
Pa said, "There must be a mistake
How can my son not be straight
After all I've said and done for him?"

[Interlude]
Do-do-do-do-do-do-do
Do-do-do-do-do-do-do
Do-do-do-do-do-do-do

[Verse 2]
Leavin' home on a Greyhound bus
Cast out by the ones he loves
A victim of these gay days it seems
[Interlude]
Do-do-do-do-do-do-do
Do-do-do-do-do-do-do
Do-do-do-do-do-do-do

[Verse 3]
Georgie went to New York town
Where he quickly settled down
And soon became the toast of the great white way
Accepted by Manhattan's elite
In all the places that were chic
No party was complete without George
Along the boulevards he'd cruise
And all the old queens blew a fuse
Everybody loved Georgie boy

[Interlude]
Do-do-do-do-do-do-do
Do-do-do-do-do-do-do
Do-do-do-do-do-do-do

[Verse 4]
The last time I saw George alive
Was in the summer of '75
He said he was in love, I said I'm pleased
George attended the opening night
Of another Broadway hype
But split before the final curtain fell
Deciding to take a short cut home
Arm in arm, they meant no wrong
A gentle breeze blew down Fifth Avenue
[Interlude]
Do-do-do-do-do-do-do
Do-do-do-do-do-do-do
Do-do-do-do-do-do-do

[Verse 5]
Out of a darkened side street came
A New Jersey gang with just one aim
To roll some innocent passer-by
There ensued a fearful fight
Screams rang out in the night
Georgie's head hit a sidewalk cornerstone
A leather kid, a switchblade knife
He did not intend to take his life
He just pushed his luck a little too far that night
The sight of blood dispersed the gang
A crowd gathered, the police came
An ambulance screamed to a halt on Fifty-Third and Third

[Interlude]
Do-do-do-do-do-do-do
Do-do-do-do-do-do-do
Do-do-do-do-do-do-do

[Verse 6]
Georgie's life ended there
But I ask who really cares
George once said to me and I quote
He said, "Never wait or hesitate
Get in kid, before it's too late
You may never get another chance
'Cause youth's a mask but it don't last
Live it long and live it fast"
Georgie was a friend of mine
Oh yeah
[Interlude]
Do-do-do-do-do-do-do
Do-do-do-do-do-do-do
Do-do-do-do-do-do-do
Do-do-do-do-do-do-do
Do-do-do-do-do-do-do
Do-do-do-do-do-do-do

[Outro]
Oh Georgie stay, don't go away
Georgie, please stay you take our breath away
Oh Georgie stay, don't go away
Georgie, please stay you take our breath away
Oh Georgie stay, don't go away
Georgie, Georgie please stay you take our breath away
Oh Georgie stay

Let's take a journey back in time and dive into the emotional and impactful song, "The Killing of Georgie, Pts. 1 & 2," brought to life by the legendary Rod Stewart. This powerful ballad takes us through the tragic story of a gay friend of Rod's, whose life takes a dramatic turn after coming out to his parents. The song follows Georgie's journey from rejection to success, only to meet a heartbreaking and untimely demise.

About The Killing of Georgie, Pts. 1 & 2

"The Killing of Georgie, Pts. 1 & 2" is a soul-stirring track released by Rod Stewart in 1976. The song is based on a true story, lending it a raw and authentic feeling that pierces deep into the listener's soul. With his distinctive raspy voice and heartfelt delivery, Rod Stewart masterfully captures the essence of Georgie's struggles and triumphs, creating a poignant and unforgettable musical experience.

The song unfolds with Georgie's life-changing moment of coming out to his parents, a courageous act that ultimately results in his expulsion from the family home. This pivotal moment sets the stage for Georgie's journey of self-discovery and resilience. Determined to find acceptance and pursue his dreams, he makes the decision to move to New York, a city known for its diversity and acceptance.

Georgie's arrival in New York marks the beginning of a fresh chapter in his life. Against all odds, he manages to overcome adversity and find his path to success. Through his sheer talent and unwavering commitment, Georgie embarks on a career as a performer, captivating audiences with his charm and magnetic stage presence.

Despite the hardships he endures along the way, Georgie's spirit remains unbroken, and his star continues to rise. The song captures the essence of his newfound fame and the elation he feels as he basks in the spotlight after years of struggle. It's a triumph not only for Georgie but also for anyone who has experienced adversity and dared to chase their dreams.

But just as Georgie's life seems to be reaching its peak, tragedy strikes in the most devastating way imaginable. The somber strains of the song mournfully describe the events that transpire one fateful night after a performance. Walking home alone, Georgie's life is cut short by an act of senseless violence, leaving a void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Rod Stewart's heartfelt and emotive vocals serve as a testament to the impact Georgie had on his life and the sorrow he feels at his friend's untimely demise. The song is a poignant tribute to Georgie, but it also serves as a commentary on the struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community during a time when acceptance and understanding were not as prevalent as they are today.

"The Killing of Georgie, Pts. 1 & 2" resonates with listeners through its compelling storytelling and raw emotion. It raises important themes of love, acceptance, and the devastating consequences of hatred and intolerance. Rod Stewart's powerful composition, coupled with his poignant lyrics, ensures that Georgie's story will continue to be remembered and honored for years to come.

In a world where the LGBTQ+ community still faces challenges and discrimination, "The Killing of Georgie, Pts. 1 & 2" stands as a timeless anthem of resilience and hope. It serves as a reminder that every individual deserves love, acceptance, and the opportunity to live their truth without fear of harm or prejudice. This powerful song remains a testament to the enduring legacy of Georgie and the countless others whose stories must be heard.

If you haven't listened to "The Killing of Georgie, Pts. 1 & 2" yet, prepare yourself for a beautifully crafted musical journey that leaves a lasting impact. Prepare to feel a whirlwind of emotions as Rod Stewart's haunting vocals and the poignant lyrics transport you into the heart-wrenching story of Georgie's life, triumphs, and tragic end. This song is a testament to the power of music to tell stories that transcend time and touch the deepest parts of our souls.

• Release Date: June 18, 1976
• Artist: Rod Stewart