“Baker Street” is undoubtedly one of the most recognizable songs of all time. The song, released by Scottish singer-songwriter Gerry Rafferty, is known for its iconic saxophone riff played by Raphael Ravenscroft. But the catchy riff almost hides the fact that “Baker Street” is accompanied by a meaningful set of lyrics. In this article, I will dive deeper into the meaning behind Gerry Rafferty’s “Baker Street”.
The Meaning of the Song
“Baker Street” is a song about the dissatisfaction of one’s current position, and the hope for a better, happier, and more fulfilling future. The song was inspired by Gerry Rafferty’s personal life and discusses a difficult period when he had to handle legal issues away from home in London, England.
The Story Behind the Song
Before Gerry Rafferty embarked on a solo career, he was part of the rock band Stealers Wheel (known for the song “Stuck in the Middle with You”). After the group disbanded in 1975, a lawsuit ensued over the members’ contractual recording obligations. As a result, Rafferty wasn’t able to release music for three years and spent a big portion of his time discussing legal matters with lawyers in London. This difficult period became the inspiration behind “Baker Street”.
“Everybody was suing each other, so I spent a lot of time on the overnight train from Glasgow to London for meetings with lawyers,” Rafferty told The Daily Telegraph. “I knew a guy who lived in a little flat off Baker Street. We’d sit and chat or play guitar there through the night.”
Analysis of the Song
In the first verse of the song, Gerry Rafferty paints the picture of him walking in Baker Street, London. The street is famous for being the residence of the fictional detective Sherlock Holmes, who lives at the non-existing 221B Baker Street.
But in actuality, Baker Street is less exciting and known for being occupied by commercial premises. Hence, it’s no surprise Rafferty considers the street – and London – a place with no soul.
The first verse is characterized by feelings of isolation, loneliness, and desperation. Rafferty is stuck in a place where he doesn’t want to be, dealing with a legal issue that doesn’t seem to resolve. The line ‘One more year and then you’d be happy’ probably refers to the seemingly never-ending and unexpected length of the lawsuit.
The second verse introduces a new character, assumably the man Rafferty knew who lived in a flat off Baker Street. He feels stuck just like Rafferty and dreams about giving up his wild lifestyle and settling down in a quiet place. But the downhearted Rafferty has little faith in the man’s dreams and believes he will always continue to be on the move, as he is a rolling stone.
The song ends on a positive note, presenting a new sunny morning. It most likely refers to the settlement of the lawsuit. As a result, Rafferty can leave London behind and return home to Paisley, Scotland.
The Legacy of Baker Street
Gerry Rafferty released “Baker Street” on his second studio album City to City. The album’s title refers to Rafferty’s 3-year-long travel obligations between London and Paisley. “Baker Street” was released as a single in early 1978 and became a worldwide top-10 hit. It peaked at number 2 on the US charts and number 3 on the UK charts.
In a rare interview with Gary Rafferty, he revealed he was proud of the success of “Baker Street”. “I suppose it’s become one of those songs like “A Whiter Shade of Pale” or something that people always remember. I’m duly flattered. I’m pleased I was able to produce something like that, something so successful, because it was a good piece of work.
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Johnny Deep should make a video walking down Baker Street with a Saxophone strapped to his back while the Baker street song is played!
John Sweeting.