Ten Popular Songs That Address the Idea of Retirement
As demonstrated by the songs, there is more good than bad about retirement
Elton John was in his twenties when he and lyricist Bernie Taupin wrote what turned out to be his retirement theme song, "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road." While the number one hit was more about breaking up than hanging it up, its message is universal enough to apply to the end of one's career.
Other popular artists have recorded songs that are either directly or indirectly associated with retirement, including one by a well-known Elton John collaborator. Here are ten of the best tunes that reflect on the idea of retirement.
Watching the Wheels by John Lennon
Never had Lennon sounded so relaxed and content this on this hit from Double Fantasy, pleased that he is "no longer riding on the merry-go-round."
Out of the Game by Rufus Wainwright
His father Loudon had twenty years before written a song called "Career Moves" but Rufus selected this more uptempo title track, probably because he was only in his thirties when he wrote it.
Rehearsals For Retirement by Phil Ochs
"The days grow longer for smaller prizes, I feel a stranger to all surprises," the folk singer reflects in this title track. "You can have them, I don't want them, I wear a different kind of garment."
Retirement by the Kaiser Chiefs
Front man Ricky Wilson repeats his desire to retire, wishing he could invent something like the washing machine or the tumble dryer to guarantee him enough income so he would no longer have to work. The wish seems relatively reasonable, except for the fact that it was written after the alt rock band had released just one album.
The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin' Groovy) by Simon and Garfunkel
With no deeds to do and no promises to keep, it is little wonder that any retiree would be able to identify with the groovy feeling in this Paul Simon song.
Watching the River Flow by Bob Dylan
Hibbing, Minnesota's most famous son was a long way from being retired when he penned this song for Blond on Blonde, but images like "I'll just sit here contentedly and watch the river flow" make it an appropriate song for the end of a career.
Sittin' on the Dock of the Bay by Otis Redding
Whistling at the end proved to be the perfect touch for this laid-back classic about disposing of everyday worries.
Hello in There by John Prine
All is not rosy about retirement, as Prine points out in this sad ballad from his debut album. The old couple find themselves with little to talk about, now that they have left the rat race.
Old Future Gone by John Gorka
"Kiss the joy as it flies by" the folk singer advises in this title track, on which he several times quotes the famous British poet William Blake.
Falling From Above by Neil Young
Right at this Greendale song's opening Grandpa asserts, albeit from the rocking chair on the front porch, that "I don't retire, I just retread."
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