“Everyday People,” released in 1968, is one of Sly & The Family Stone’s most enduring and impactful songs. As a powerful anthem of unity, acceptance, and equality, the song became a defining track for the counterculture movement of the 1960s. Its uplifting message, combined with the band’s signature blend of funk, soul, and rock, made “Everyday People” a timeless classic that continues to inspire new generations.

About The Song

• Lyrics Interpretation: The lyrics of “Everyday People” convey a message of unity and equality, promoting the idea that despite our differences, we are all the same at heart. The iconic line “I am no better and neither are you / We are the same whatever we do” highlights the need to break down societal divisions based on race, class, or other forms of prejudice. The phrase “Different strokes for different folks” became a popular saying, encapsulating the song’s theme of acceptance and harmony.
• Songwriting Inspiration: Sly Stone wrote “Everyday People” as a response to the divisive climate of the 1960s, particularly around issues of race, inequality, and societal conflict. The song’s simple yet powerful message of unity reflects Sly Stone’s vision of a world where people of all backgrounds and identities can come together in peace. The diverse makeup of Sly & The Family Stone, both racially and musically, embodied this message, making the song not just an anthem but also a representation of the band’s ideals.
• Cultural Impact: “Everyday People” became a cultural anthem during the civil rights movement and resonated deeply with the counterculture of the late 1960s. Its message of racial harmony and social equality struck a chord with audiences across America and beyond. The song’s positive and inclusive message made it a rallying cry for peace and understanding, and it continues to be used in social justice movements and campaigns advocating for equality.
• Chart Success: “Everyday People” was a commercial success, becoming Sly & The Family Stone’s first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1969. The song’s success helped propel the band to international fame and established them as one of the leading voices in the funk and soul music scenes. Its crossover appeal, combining elements of rock, soul, and funk, helped make the song popular across different audiences, further solidifying its place in music history.
• Song Legacy: “Everyday People” remains one of Sly & The Family Stone’s most iconic songs, regularly appearing on lists of the greatest songs of all time. Its timeless message of unity and acceptance continues to resonate with listeners today, making it a staple in discussions of music that has influenced social change. The song has been covered and sampled by numerous artists, further cementing its place as a defining piece of 1960s music.

“Everyday People” stands as a testament to Sly & The Family Stone’s genius in blending social commentary with infectious music. Its enduring message of unity, equality, and understanding ensures its place as one of the most important songs in the history of popular music.

Video

Lyric

[Verse 1]
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

[Chorus]
I am everyday people, yeah, yeah

[Verse 1]
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

[Refrain]
Ooh, sha-sha
We got to live together (Ooh, sha-sha)

[Verse 2]
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

[Chorus]
I am everyday people, yeah, yeah
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[Verse 3]
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

[Refrain]
Ooh, sha-sha
We got to live together (Ooh, sha-sha)

[Verse 4]
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

[Chorus]
Ooh, sha-sha
I am everyday people (Ooh, sha-sha)