The Commodores are a famous American funk and soul band formed in 1968 in Tuskegee, Alabama.
They became well-known in the 1970s and 1980s with hits like Easy and Brick House. Their music blends funk, soul, and R&B, and they gained recognition for their catchy melodies and powerful vocals.
Lionel Richie was a key member before starting his solo career. The Commodores are celebrated for their timeless songs and influence on pop and soul music.
About the Song
Sail On is a song about moving forward and letting go of the past. The lyrics speak to the pain of parting ways, but also about finding the strength to move on.
It is a message of hope and resilience, reminding us that no matter how tough things get, we must keep sailing ahead toward a brighter future.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Release Date | May 1979 |
| Album | All the Great Love Songs |
| Writer | Lionel Richie |
| Producer | James Anthony Carmichael & Commodores |
Sail On Lyrics
Verse 1
Sail on down the line
‘Bout a half a mile or so
And I don’t really wanna know
Where you’re going
Maybe once or twice, you see
Time after time I tried not to
To hold on to what we got
But now you’re going
Pre-Chorus 1
And I don’t mind
About the things you’re gonna say, Lord
I gave all my money and my time
I know it’s a shame
But I’m giving you back your name
Yeah, yeah
Chorus 1
Yes, I’ll be on my way
I won’t be back to stay
I guess I’ll move along
I’m looking for a good time
Verse 2
Sail on down the line
Ain’t it funny how the time can go
All my friends say they told me so
But it doesn’t matter
It was plain to see that
A small town boy like me
Just wasn’t your cup of tea
I was wishful thinking
Pre-Chorus 2
I gave you my heart
And I tried to make you happy
And you gave me nothing in return
You know, it ain’t so hard to say
Would you please just go away
Yeah, yeah
Chorus 2
I’ve thrown away the blues
I’m tired of being used
I want everyone to know
I’m looking for a good time
Good time
Yeah
Pre-Chorus 3
I gave you my heart
And I tried to make you happy
And you gave me nothing in return
You know, it ain’t so hard to say
Would you please just go away
Yeah, yeah
Chorus 3
I got nothing else to lose
I’m tired of being used
I want everyone to know
I’m looking for a good time
Good time
Yeah
Bridge
Sail on, honey
Good times never felt so good
Sail on, honey
Good times never felt so good
Sail on, sugar
Good times never felt so good
Outro
Sail on
Sail on
Sail on
Similar Songs Like Sail On
These songs all share the calming, soulful vibes found in Sail On, making them perfect for fans of smooth R&B and soul music:
- Still: A heartfelt ballad from the Midnight Magic album, Still shares the same gentle, reflective tone and was also a major hit for the Commodores.
- Three Times a Lady: This classic Commodores ballad, written and sung by Lionel Richie, features a similar soft, romantic style and lush arrangement.
- Easy: Known for its laid-back, soothing vibe and memorable chorus, Easy is one of the Commodores’ most iconic slow jams.
- Oh No: Another Lionel Richie-penned ballad, Oh No is marked by its tender lyrics and smooth instrumentation, fitting well with the emotional and melodic qualities of Sail On.
Similar Artists to The Commodores
For fans of The Commodores, these artists offer similar soulful vibes and classic R&B sounds:
- Al Green
Genre: Soul, R&B, Gospel
Top Albums: Let’s Stay Together, I’m Still in Love with You - The Temptations
Genre: R\&B, Soul, Motown
Top Albums: Cloud Nine, All Directions - Aretha Franklin
Genre: Soul, R&B, Gospel
Top Albums: I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You, Lady Soul - Curtis Mayfield
Genre: Soul, Funk, R&B
Top Albums: Super Fly, Curtis
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Sail On Perform on the Charts?
The song was a hit, reaching high positions on both R&B and pop charts in the late 1970s.
How does Sail On Compare to Other Commodores Songs?
It has a slower, soulful feel, differing from their funkier hits.
What Impact did Sail On Have on R&B Music?
It influenced the soft soul and R&B sound of the late ’70s.
