Ballad Of The Sad Young Men
Roberta Flack · Original Album Series [2012]
All the news is bad again, kiss your dreams goodbye
All the sad young men, sitting in the bars
Knowing neon nights, and missing all the stars
All the sad young men, drifting through the town
Drinking up the night, trying not to drown
All the sad young men, singing in the cold
Trying to forget, that they're growing old
All the sad young men, choking on their youth
Trying to be brave, running from the truth
Autumn turns the leaves to gold, slowly dies the heart
Sad young men are growing old, that's the cruellest part
All the sad young men, seek a certain smile
Someone they can hold, for just a little while
Tired little girl, does the best she can
Trying to be gay, for a sad young men
While a grimy moon, watches from above
All the sad young men, who play at making love
Misbegotten moon shine for sad young men
Let your gentle light guide them home again
All the sad, sad, sad, young men
Ballad Of The Sad Young Men
Roberta Flack's "Ballad Of The Sad Young Men" stands as a defining example of her late-career resurgence, blending soulful vocals with a lush, orchestral arrangement. Released on the "Original Album Series [2012]" compilation, the track reflects her enduring mastery of the soft rock and soul genres. The recording captures Flack's signature emotive delivery, characterized by her distinctive falsetto and intimate connection with the material. While the song was not part of her initial discography, it highlights her continued relevance and artistic depth in the modern era, showcasing her ability to reinterpret classic themes with contemporary production values. The piece remains a testament to her career-long commitment to emotional authenticity and musical sophistication.
