Meaning of "Rock & Roll People" by Johnny Winter

"Rock & Roll People" by Johnny Winter carries a strong message of defiance and individuality. The lyrics highlight a rejection of conformity and an embrace of the rebellious spirit of rock and roll. The singer asserts their identity as part of a community of outsiders who are destined to make headlines and challenge societal norms. The lines "Don't tell me where your head is, man, I can see your shining shoes" and "Don't play the Virgin Mary, we all know you've been screwed" point to a distrust of authority figures and a refusal to adhere to expectations placed upon them. The references to familial relationships like "My father was a mother, my mother was a son" suggest a blurring of traditional gender roles and a mockery of conventional family dynamics. Overall, the song celebrates the freedom and authenticity found in rock and roll culture while rejecting mainstream ideals.