Styx is an American rock band formed in Chicago in 1972, known for blending hard rock with melodic ballads and theatrical elements.
They gained fame in the 1970s and early 1980s with hits like Come Sail Away, Babe, and Mr. Roboto. The band’s music combines electric guitars, synthesizers, and acoustic instruments, creating a unique sound that mixes rock and pop.
Styx was the first band to have four platinum albums in a row and became famous for their energetic live shows. After a break in the 1980s, they reunited in 1995 and continue to perform with a mix of original and new members.
About the Song
Come Sail Away is about dreaming of freedom and new adventures. The song talks about leaving behind troubles and searching for hope.
It uses sailing as a symbol for discussing life’s possibilities and finding peace. The music builds from calm to powerful, showing the excitement of chasing dreams.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | July 7, 1977 |
| Album | Come Sail Away: The Styx Anthology (2004) |
| Writers | Dennis DeYoung |
| Producers | Chuck Panozzo, John Panozzo, James Young, Tommy Shaw & Dennis DeYoung |
Come Sail Away Lyrics By Styx
Verse 1
I’m sailing away
Set an open course for the Virgin Sea
‘Cause I’ve got to be free
Free to face the life that’s ahead of me
Refrain
On board I’m the captain
So climb aboard
We’ll search for tomorrow
On every shore
And I’ll try, oh Lord I’ll try
To carry on
Verse 2
I look to the sea
Reflections in the waves spark my memory
Some happy, some sad
I think of childhood friends, and the dreams we had
Refrain
We lived happily forever
So the story goes
But somehow we missed out
On the pot of gold
But we’ll try best that we can
To carry on
Pre-Chorus
A gathering of angels
Appeared above my head
They sang to me this song of hope
And this is what they said
Chorus
They said, “Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me, lads
Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me
Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me, babe
Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me”
Instrumental Break 03:20-04:41
Keyboard Solo
Guitar Solo
Pre-Chorus
I thought that they were angels
But to my surprise
We climbed aboard their starship
We headed for the skies
Chorus/Outro
Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail with me, lads
Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me
Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me
Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me
Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me
Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me
Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me
Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me
Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me
Background and History of the Song
Come Sail Away is a famous song written and sung by Dennis DeYoung. It was released in 1977 on their album The Grand Illusion and quickly became one of their biggest hits, reaching number 8 on the Billboard charts.
Dennis DeYoung wrote the song during a tough time for the band, feeling sad and unsure about their future after earlier albums didn’t do as well as hoped.
The idea for the song came while the band was in Hawaii, where he was inspired by the peaceful ocean and boats, leading him to use sailing as a symbol for chasing dreams and finding a better place.
Musically, the song starts soft and gentle, then grows into a powerful rock anthem, showing how dreams can start small and become big.
Come Sail Away remains a beloved classic that still inspires listeners to dream and hope for a brighter future.
Similar Songs Like Come Sail Away
Here are similar songs by the same artist that share the same feeling and energy.
- The Grand Illusion: Opening with powerful keys, this song talks about how life isn’t always what it seems. It encourages people to look deeper beyond appearances.
- Babe: Starting gently with emotional vocals, this ballad expresses love and longing. It tells the story of someone saying goodbye to someone special.
- Lady: With sweet, heartfelt lyrics, this song speaks to deep affection and admiration. It remains one of the band’s most touching love songs.
- Renegade: Fast and thrilling, this track brings the story of a man on the run. The beat and vocals build up excitement and tension.
Similar Artists Like Styx
If you enjoy the sound, energy, and storytelling style of this band, these artists offer a similar rock spirit with emotional depth.
- Kansas
Genre: Progressive Rock, Arena Rock
Top Albums: Leftoverture (1976), Point of Know Return (1977), Monolith (1979) - REO Speedwagon
Genre: Rock, Soft Rock
Top Albums: Hi Infidelity (1980), Wheels Are Turnin’ (1984), You Can Tune a Piano, but You Can’t Tuna Fish (1978) - Journey
Genre: Rock, Arena Rock
Top Albums: Escape (1981), Infinity (1978), Frontiers (1983) - Foreigner
Genre: Rock, Hard Rock
Top Albums: 4 (1981), Double Vision (1978), Agent Provocateur (1984)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Come Sail Away Used in Movies and TV Shows?
Its dramatic and emotional sound fits perfectly with powerful storytelling moments.
How did Come Sail Away Become Popular with Younger Audiences?
Its appearance in South Park introduced the song to Millennials and Gen Z.
What Unique Twist Appears in the Lyrics of Come Sail Away?
The song shifts from sailing to a starship, hinting at themes of magic or even alien abduction.
