Song Meaning & Cultural Context

Lazy Susan

Album Cover
BY Laura Nyro
FROM THE ALBUM: Classics
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'Lazy Susan' is a track from Laura Nyro's 1971 album 'Gonna Take a Miracle', a collaborative project with the group Labelle. This album marked a significant moment in Nyro's career, as it showcased her ability to blend her unique songwriting style with the vibrant energy of soul music. Released during a period when Nyro was transitioning from her earlier folk and pop roots, 'Lazy Susan' stands out due to its infectious grooves and rich harmonies, characteristic of the early '70s sound. The song exemplifies the evolution of Nyro's artistry, highlighting her innovative approaches to composition and arrangement.

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The lyrics of 'Lazy Susan' delve into themes of love, longing, and the cyclical nature of relationships. Nyro employs the metaphor of a lazy Susan—a rotating tray used for serving food—to symbolize the circular motions of love and heartache. Lines like 'And you can’t stop the turning, it’s like a wheel that keeps on burning' illustrate this idea of inevitability in romantic entanglements. The song captures the bittersweet essence of love, portraying it as both a delightful experience and a source of frustration. Nyro's emotive vocal delivery enhances these themes, making the listener feel the intensity of her reflections.

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'Lazy Susan' has received acclaim over the years for its intricate craftsmanship and emotional depth. Critics often cite Nyro's ability to blend various musical styles as a significant influence on later artists across genres, particularly in the realm of singer-songwriter and soul music. The song's legacy is evident in its continued appreciation by musicians and fans alike, often being covered and referenced in contemporary music. Nyro's work, including 'Lazy Susan', has been acknowledged for paving the way for female artists to express their individuality and complexity in the male-dominated music industry of the time.

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