Jackson Browne, a master of melancholy and introspection, reached a profound depth in his 1974 album, Late For The Sky. While critics often highlight “For A Dancer” and “Before the Deluge” as masterpieces, the entire album, including the title track and “Fountain Of Sorrow,” showcases Browne’s exceptional songwriting. Among these gems, “For A Dancer” stands out as a particularly enduring and moving piece.
At first listen, “For A Dancer” might sound like a simple lament. However, beneath the surface of sorrow lies a powerful message of hope and redemption. The song is deeply rooted in the grief Browne experienced after the untimely death of his close friend, Scott Runyon. Runyon, a talented dancer, skater, painter, and sculptor, perished in a house fire. Browne channels his raw emotions, reminiscent of “Song For Adam” from his debut album, Saturate Before Using, into poignant lyrics:
I don’t know what happens when people die
Can’t seem to grasp it as hard as I try
It’s like a song I can hear playing right in my ear
That I can’t sing, I can’t help listening
Stephen Holden of Rolling Stone aptly described Late For The Sky as Browne’s strongest work, noting his honest exploration of “the vulnerability of romantic idealism and the pain of adjustment from youthful narcissism to adult survival.” This album resonated deeply with those slightly younger than Browne, who, in the 1970s, were navigating a world brimming with romantic ideals. Singer-songwriters like Browne, Dylan, Cohen, and Mitchell became the soundtrack of a generation dreaming of endless possibilities before the harsher realities of the coming decades set in.
The intimacy of Browne’s early work is significantly enriched by the multi-instrumental virtuosity of David Lindley. Lindley’s distinctive guitar work on “Fountain Of Sorrow” is remarkable, but it’s his fiddle on “For A Dancer” that truly elevates the song. Lindley’s fiddle becomes a dancer itself, gracefully waltzing around Browne’s heartfelt vocals and piano chords, echoing the song’s core theme of movement and life’s ephemeral nature.
Browne’s melodies, while seemingly straightforward, possess a comforting familiarity that always leaves room for subtle surprises and emotional depth. His lyrical prowess is on full display in “For A Dancer,” supported by Lindley’s eloquent accompaniment and a sparse production that allows the song’s emotional core to shine.
Ultimately, “For A Dancer” is not just about sorrow; it’s about resilience. Even amidst melancholy, Browne kindles a flame of hope for humanity. He reminds us to embrace life’s fleeting beauty and find joy even in uncertainty:
Don’t let the uncertainty turn you around
The world keeps turning around and around
Go on and make a joyful sound
Jackson Browne continues to make that joyful sound, and “For A Dancer” remains a testament to his enduring artistry. Hopefully, this timeless song will grace his setlist for upcoming performances, continuing to move audiences with its poignant beauty.
