Stephanie's Room
Joan Baez · Complete A&m Recordings [2003]
"You've loved me exquisitely."
"I tried to."
"Can we be best of friends now?"
"I never lied to you."
"And can I love you forever?"
"Sure," she said and smiled
"But will you?"
I wish there was some new way
To sing about a full moon
Poured down on us like a thousand rivers
In Stephanie's room
And you said you'd remember always
The shadows on the hills below us
But will you?
You never once tried to sell me
A bill of goods I wouldn't buy
But I'm seasoned and I know a pirate
By the devil in his eye
And the only thing you ever stole from me
Was laughter and some love I made
To fill you
White snow in the morning
Kind of frightened me
But you'd go sailing anyway
Things are different at sea
You know I'll never try and change your habit
As sure as you know if your ship sinks
It'll kill you
And all the lovely ladies who came before me
Are very much the same
As the others soon to follow
In your merry little game
I guess I just want to be remembered
Especially and frequently
Like Stephanie
Five red tail hawks are circling
Above us in the sky
You said they'd bring good luck
And then you said goodbye
You smiled and said, "I'll see you
Sooner than you think."
But will you?
© 1976, 1977 Gabriel Earl Music (ASCAP)
Stephanie's Room
Joan Baez's "Stephanie's Room" stands as a poignant song in her extensive folk catalog, showcasing her signature clear vocals and emotive delivery. The song reflects the introspective quality often found in her recordings from the mid-20th century, blending personal narrative with the broader traditions of American folk music. As part of her substantial body of work, the track highlights Baez's ability to convey deep sentiment through simple, direct storytelling. Her interpretation adds a layer of intimacy to the composition, distinguishing it within her diverse discography. This recording remains a testament to her enduring influence on the genre, capturing the quiet strength and vulnerability that have defined her career for decades.