John Denver – Cool an’ Green an’ Shady

About the song

John Denver’s “Cool and Green and Shady”: A Nostalgic Journey

John Denver, a singer-songwriter known for his warm and gentle voice, painted vivid landscapes with his lyrics. His songs often captured the beauty of nature and the simple joys of life. One such song is “Cool and Green and Shady”, a tranquil ode to finding peace and contentment in nature’s embrace.

Released in 1974 as part of his album “Back Home Again”, “Cool and Green and Shady” quickly became a fan favorite. Its gentle melody and evocative lyrics resonated with listeners, offering a respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The song opens with a nostalgic description of a lazy summer day: “Saturdays, holidays, easy afternoons / Lazy days, summer days, nothing much to do.” Denver’s soothing voice paints a picture of carefree childhood memories, spent basking in the sun and enjoying the simple pleasures of life.

As the song progresses, Denver sings about the sanctuary he finds in nature. He describes a cool, shady spot beneath a tree, where he can escape the worries of the world and find peace and tranquility. The imagery he evokes is vivid and immersive, transporting the listener to a place of calm and serenity.

The song’s chorus is a simple but powerful refrain: “Somewhere cool, and green, and shady / Find yourself a piece of grassy ground / Lay down, close your eyes.” Denver’s gentle delivery invites the listener to join him in this idyllic escape, to let go of their troubles and simply relax in the beauty of nature.

“Cool and Green and Shady” is more than just a pleasant song; it is a reminder of the importance of finding peace and balance in our lives. In a world that is often chaotic and stressful, Denver’s song offers a much-needed respite, a chance to reconnect with nature and find solace in its beauty.

The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless message. It is a song that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, and it continues to provide comfort and inspiration to listeners around the world.

Video

Lyrics

“Cool An’ Green An’ Shady”

 

Saturdays, holidays, easy afternoons,
lazy days, sunny days, nothing much to do.
Rainy days are better days for hanging out inside.
Grainy days and city ways make me want to hide
someplace cool and green and shady.

Find yourself a piece of grassy ground, lay down close your eyes.
Find yourself and maybe lose yourself while your free spirit flies.

August skies, and lullabies, promises to keep,
dandelions and twisting vines, clover at your feet.
Memories of aspen leaves trembling on the wind,
honey bees and fantasies, where to start again,
someplace cool and green and shady. Cool and green and shady.
Cool and green and shady. Cool and green and shady.