Psychedelic Soul Music

The song “Everyday People” with its message of tolerance for all kinds of people from all walks of life with all kinds of attitudes was written and produced by Sly Stone. A plea for peace and recognition of equality among different peoples was as timely in the 1960s as it is now. In 1968, the song went to #1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, U.S. Cashbox, and the U.S.  R&B Chart. It was in the Top 40 on the U.K. Singles Chart. The song was also featured on their 1969 album Stand!.

The Sly and The Family Stone band originated in San Francisco. They recorded songs in many genres, including funk, psychedelic soul, rock, soul, pop, funk rock, and R&B. Sly Stone, a multi-talented musician, songwriter, and producer, headed this group of family members and friends. They had an integrated, multi-gender lineup.  This reflected their philosophy of love, peace, and understanding among all of humanity. Over the years, there were many membership changes, but for this track., it was Sly Stone, Freddie Stone, Cynthia Robinson, Jerry Martini, Larry Graham, Greg Errico, and Rose Stone.  Little Sister provided background vocals (i.e., Vet Stone, Mary McCreary, and Elva Mouton).

Here are the lyrics to “Everyday People” by Sly and The Family Stone:

“Sometimes I’m right and I can be wrong
My own beliefs are in my song
The butcher, the banker, the drummer and then
Makes no difference what group I’m in
I am everyday people, yeah, yeah

There is a blue one
Who can’t accept the green one
For living with a fat one
Trying to be a skinny one
Different strokes
For different folks

And so on and so on
And scooby dooby dooby
Oh sha sha
We got to live together

I am no better and neither are you
We are the same, whatever we do
You love me, you hate me, you know me and then
You can’t figure out the bag I’m in
I am everyday people, yeah yeah

There is a long hair
That doesn’t like the short hair
For being such a rich one
That will not help the poor one
Different strokes
For different folks

And so on and so on
And scooby dooby dooby
Oh sha sha
We got to live together

There is a yellow one
That won’t accept the black one
That won’t accept the red one
That won’t accept the white one
Different strokes
For different folks

And so on and so on
And scooby dooby dooby
Oh sha sha
I am everyday people”

For another song by Sly and the Family Stone: “Thank You Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin” and “Hot Fun in the Summertime.”

Check Out The Groove Pad for More 1960s Music

The Pass the Paisley Groove Pad is a resting stop, a place to chill out and listen to the featured song on the stereo. If the mood strikes you, click on the juke box to access and listen to the 50+ free online songs there. The TV has several channels, with selections updated twice a week. Every now and then, Pass the Paisley hosts an all-request of 1960s and 1970s songs for a Be-In at the juke box in the Groove Pad. Keep on truckin’. Hope you enjoyed “Everyday People” by Sly and the Family Stone.