About the song
“July Morning” by Uriah Heep is a quintessential classic rock anthem that continues to captivate listeners since its release in 1972. Uriah Heep, a British rock band formed in the late 1960s, became known for their powerful blend of progressive rock, hard rock, and heavy metal. The song “July Morning” is a standout track from their album “Look at Yourself,” which is often celebrated as one of the band’s finest works.
Composed by keyboardist Ken Hensley and lead vocalist David Byron, “July Morning” showcases the band’s signature sound characterized by Byron’s emotive vocal delivery, Hensley’s lush keyboards, Mick Box’s dynamic guitar riffs, Gary Thain’s robust bass lines, and Lee Kerslake’s energetic drumming. The song is notable for its epic length, surpassing ten minutes, and features an extensive instrumental section that allows each band member to shine.
“July Morning” did not achieve significant chart success upon its initial release but has since grown in stature, becoming a fan favorite and a staple of Uriah Heep’s live performances. The song’s enduring appeal is attributed to its evocative lyrics, which reflect themes of searching and longing, and its powerful musical arrangement that creates a rich, atmospheric soundscape.
The album “Look at Yourself” itself was a commercial success, reaching number 39 on the UK Albums Chart and making a considerable impact in various international markets, particularly in Germany and the Netherlands. Over the years, “July Morning” has been covered by several artists and remains a beloved classic in the progressive rock genre.
For many fans, “July Morning” represents the pinnacle of Uriah Heep’s artistic achievements, a song that encapsulates the band’s ability to blend melodic sensibility with rock’s raw power. Its legacy continues to inspire new generations of listeners, solidifying Uriah Heep’s place in rock history.
Video
Lyrics
There I was on a July morning
Looking for love
With the strength of a new day dawning
And the beautiful sun
At the sound of the first bird singing
I was leaving for home
With the storm and the night behind me
And a road of my own
With the day came the resolution
I’ll be looking for you
La la la la, la la la la, la la la
I was looking for love in the strangest places
There wasn’t a stone that I left unturned
I must have tried more than a thousand faces
But not one was aware of the fire that burned
In my heart, in my mind, in my soul
La la la la, la la la la, la la la
In my heart, in my mind, in my soul
La la la la, la la la la, la la la
La la la la, la la la la, la la la
La, la, la, la
There I was on a July morning
I was looking for love
With the strength of a new day dawning
And the beautiful sun
At the sound of the first bird singing
I was leaving for home
With the storm and the night behind me, yeah
And a road of my own
With the day came the resolution
I’ll be looking for you
La la la la, la la la la, la la la