About the song
The Everly Brothers’ “Problems”. Now that’s a song that takes you back to a simpler time, doesn’t it? The late 1950s were a period of immense change. Rock and Roll was exploding onto the scene, challenging the traditional sounds of pop music. The Everly Brothers, with their close harmonies and infectious energy, were right at the forefront of this revolution.
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“Problems”, released in 1958, perfectly captures that youthful angst and yearning that defined the era. It’s not a protest song, mind you, but it speaks to a universal experience – the frustration of young love’s complications. The song opens with a deceptively cheerful melody, those soaring Everly harmonies masking a deeper sentiment.
Listen closely to the lyrics: “Well, I got problems, a whole lot of ’em / Seems like every day there’s a brand new one.” This isn’t teenage rebellion; it’s the dawning realization that life isn’t always sunshine and rainbows.
What makes the song so enduring is its relatability. Even though the world has changed dramatically since 1958, the core issues of young love – misunderstandings, jealousy, insecurity – remain constant. The narrator in “Problems” is clearly smitten, but his attempts to navigate this new emotional landscape are met with confusion.
He sings, “I don’t know what I’ve done, baby / To make you turn your head away from me.” There’s a charming innocence in his plea, a vulnerability that resonates with anyone who’s ever been tongue-tied by love’s complexities.
“Problems” isn’t a ballad, though. It retains that signature Everly Brothers rock and roll energy. The driving rhythm section, punctuated by Don Everly’s lead guitar, keeps the song moving at a brisk pace.
This juxtaposition of upbeat music with introspective lyrics is what makes the song so interesting. It’s a reminder that even amidst life’s difficulties, there’s still room for a little joy, a little hope.
So, when you hear the opening chords of “Problems”, take a moment to be transported back to a simpler time. It’s a song that captures a specific era, but the emotions it evokes are timeless. It’s a testament to the enduring power of the Everly Brothers’ music, a perfect blend of youthful angst and infectious melody that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages.