Styx – Babe (1979)

About the song

Styx, a rock band renowned for their progressive rock and melodic hard rock sound, released “Babe” in 1979 as the lead single from their album *Grand Illusion*. This song, penned by Dennis DeYoung, quickly became a massive hit, reaching the top five on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and cementing Styx’s place in the annals of rock music.

“Babe” is a power ballad that showcases the band’s ability to craft emotionally resonant and catchy tunes. The song’s introspective lyrics explore themes of love, loss, and longing. DeYoung’s soaring vocals, coupled with the band’s signature harmonies and the lush orchestration, create a truly captivating listening experience.

The song’s structure is classic, with a verse-chorus-bridge-chorus format. The verses build tension with their melancholic tone, while the chorus offers a sense of hope and yearning. The bridge features a powerful guitar solo that adds a layer of intensity to the song. The song’s ending, with its repeated refrain of “Babe,” is both poignant and uplifting.

“Babe” is a timeless piece of music that has resonated with audiences for decades. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its emotional depth, catchy melody, and the band’s masterful performance. The song’s success solidified Styx’s status as one of the most beloved rock bands of the era and continues to inspire musicians and fans alike.

Video

Lyrics

Babe, I’m leaving, I must be on my way
The time is drawing near
My train is going, I see it in your eyes
The love, the need, your tears
But I’ll be lonely without you
And I’ll need your love to see me through
Please believe me, my heart is in your hands
And I’ll be missing you

You know it’s you Babe
Whenever I get weary and I’ve had enough
Feel like giving up
You know it’s you Babe
Giving me the courage and the strength I need
Please believe that it’s true
Babe, I love you

You know it’s you Babe
Whenever I get weary and I’ve had enough
Feel like giving up
You know it’s you Babe
Giving me the courage and the strength I need
Please believe that it’s true
Babe, I love you

Babe, I’m leaving, I’ll say it once again
Somehow try to smile
I know the feeling we’re trying to forget
If only for a while
Cause I’ll be lonely without you
And I’ll need your love to see me through
Please believe me, my heart is in your hands
Cause I’ll be missing you
Babe, I love you
Babe, I love you
Oh, Babe