About the song

“Sailing” by Christopher Cross is a soft rock masterpiece that evokes a sense of tranquility and escape. Released in 1980, this song stands as a testament to Cross’s smooth vocal delivery and his ability to craft melodies that are both soothing and captivating. It’s more than just a pop song; it’s an auditory journey, a gentle voyage into a world of peace and serenity.

The song’s lyrics, simple yet evocative, paint a picture of sailing as a metaphor for finding inner peace and freedom. The narrator invites the listener to “set an open course for the virgin sea,” leaving behind the stresses of daily life and embracing the tranquility of the open water. Cross’s vocal delivery, marked by its gentle phrasing and smooth tenor, enhances the song’s calming and reflective quality.

Christopher Cross’s vocal style, characterized by its smooth tenor and effortless phrasing, imbues the song with a sense of both tranquility and warmth. He doesn’t just sing the lyrics; he invites the listener to join him on a journey of inner peace, conveying the serenity of the open sea with a quiet intensity. This gentle intensity is a hallmark of his artistry, and it’s what makes his rendition of “Sailing” so compelling.

The song’s arrangement, typically lush and atmospheric, allows Cross’s vocals and the melody to take center stage. The gentle acoustic guitar, soft synthesizers, and subtle percussion create a sense of calm and tranquility, mirroring the song’s theme of escape.

“Sailing” is more than just a pop song; it’s an auditory escape, a moment of tranquility in a world often filled with chaos. It’s a testament to Christopher Cross’s ability to craft melodies that soothe the soul and transport the listener to a place of peace.

Video

Lyrics

Well, it’s not far down to paradise
At least it’s not for me
And if the wind is right you can sail away
And find tranquility
Oh, the canvas can do miracles
Just you wait and see
Believe me
It’s not far to never never land
No reason to pretend
And if the wind is right you can find the joy
Of innocence again
Oh, the canvas can do miracles
Just you wait and see
Believe me
Sailing
Takes me away to where I’ve always heard it could be
Just a dream and the wind to carry me
Soon I will be free
Fantasy
It gets the best of me
When I’m sailing
All caught up in the reverie
Every word is a symphony
Won’t you believe me?
Sailing
Takes me away to where I’ve always heard it could be
Just a dream and the wind to carry me
Soon I will be free
Well, it’s not far back to sanity
At least it’s not for me
And if the wind is right you can sail away
And find serenity
Oh, the canvas can do miracles
Just you wait and see
Can’t you, believe me?
Sailing
Takes me away to where I’ve always heard it could be
Just a dream and the wind to carry me
And soon I will be free