John Denver’s Take Me to Tomorrow. Now that’s a song that brings back a wave of nostalgia, a gentle current carrying us back to the folk revival of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Denver, with his wholesome persona, folksy charm, and genuine love for the natural world, became a beacon of optimism during a turbulent time.

Take Me to Tomorrow, released in May 1970, wasn’t Denver’s debut album, but it was his sophomore effort, following Rhymes & Reasons. Interestingly, Denver’s early albums, including Take Me to Tomorrow, showcase a slightly different side of the artist we would come to know later. While the sunny disposition and environmental themes remained, there was a touch more introspection and a willingness to explore deeper emotions.

Take Me to Tomorrow itself reflects this. The song opens with a simple question – “Hey everybody, tell me how do you feel? Are you satisfied with your life? Do you think it’s real?” It’s a direct approach, one that cuts to the heart of the human experience. Are we content? Are we living authentically? Denver doesn’t shy away from the possibility of dissatisfaction, but rather uses it as a springboard for a more hopeful message.

The melody, a gentle acoustic guitar strumming with a touch of banjo, is quintessential Denver. It’s unpretentious and inviting, creating a warm space for the listener to ponder these introspective questions. The lyrics themselves are full of yearning. “Take Me to Tomorrow,” Denver sings, “Take me there today, I’ve had my fill of sorrow and living this way.” It’s a plea for something better, a desire to break free from the monotony or negativity of the present.

But Take Me to Tomorrow isn’t simply about escapism. The song isn’t advocating for ignoring the challenges of today. Denver acknowledges the possibility of a negative response – “Well maybe so, come on.” There’s a recognition that change can be difficult, that the path to a brighter tomorrow isn’t always clear.

Yet, the song’s core message remains one of hope. The insistent refrain, “Take me to tomorrow, that’s where I’d like to be, the day after tomorrow is waiting for me,” speaks to the power of optimism. It’s a belief that even if the present is fraught, a better future awaits. It’s a sentiment that resonated deeply with audiences during a time of social and political upheaval.

Take Me to Tomorrow might not be one of John Denver’s biggest hits, but it’s a song that offers a glimpse into the heart of a young artist still finding his voice. It’s a testament to the enduring power of folk music, its ability to connect with the human spirit on a fundamental level, offering solace and a flicker of hope in the face of uncertainty. So, sit back, let the gentle strumming of the guitar wash over you, and allow yourself to be carried Take Me to Tomorrow.

Video