Website design By BotEap.comI have to admit, it’s (almost) fun to search for stuff online and constantly find out how many different (and conflicting) facts are out there for a given topic. Of course, it can also be a bit alarming if one is investigating something where misinformation can cause harm (ie drugs or medical treatments, etc.). Since those who post incorrect “data” about the meanings behind certain popular songs are not going to cause much damage or change the rotation of the earth we will forgive these transgressions. However, from a songwriter’s perspective, the question must be asked: do we really NEED to know the original “meaning” behind a song?

Website design By BotEap.comJackson Browne’s “For a Dancer” first appeared on the platinum-selling 1974 album Late For The Sky and has led fans online to debate whether the song was the result of the suicide of Browne’s wife (who was actually occurred after the song’s release) or the death of his friend Adam (who inspired “Adam’s Song” on Jackson’s 1972 debut album) among other theories. This mix of fact and fiction really raises the question: Why is it important to know the real meaning behind a song? Especially when it’s clear, given the online posts related to this song, “For a Dancer” had different meanings to many different people, regardless of what led Browne to write this song.

Website design By BotEap.comOne fan wrote about his father (whom they referred to as his “best friend”) who passed away three years ago and recounted how difficult this loss has been. His father was a big fan of Jackson Browne. Recently, the writer was with his dying uncle, he left the bed and suddenly “For a Dancer” by Jackson Browne played. The uncle died several hours later and the fan believes that his father “played that song” (from above) to help get over the loss of the uncle.

Website design By BotEap.comAnother online writer dedicated “For a Dancer” to her mother and friend who had recently died. A dancer wrote how she relates to the song and wants to keep it in her head until she dies. Another wrote: “My dad and my ex (plus a dog, a cat, a horse and a guy) left this crazy planet over the past year. This song speaks to my heart. Finally another fan posted: “My dad died ten years ago. He loved this song since he was a little boy. They played it at his funeral. Every time I listen to him I remember the good things about him.”

Website design By BotEap.comRegardless of what actually led Jackson Browne to write “For a Dancer,” the song ranks among Browne’s best work. The four minute and forty two second piece was the sixth song on the Grammy nominated album Late For the Sky and is a must for any music fan. And it is our suggestion that you listen, enjoy and place and add your OWN meaning to the song. It’s the only one that really matters.