Some songwriters develop their style and technique over a stretch of time. Looking back on their work, you might be able to notice that their earlier songs pale a bit compared to what they were able to do early in their career.
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And then there are the precious few who come out of the gate already mature and assured in their songwriting moves. Count Jackson Browne in that group. That’s evidenced by “Looking Into You”, a stellar track found on his debut album.
Caught “Looking”
When Jackson Browne released his self-titled first album in 1972, the reviews were pretty rapturous. It sounded almost eerie to hear someone on his debut record delivering songs so rich with profound insight and so replete with effortless songwriting technique. This was more like a tenth album, not a first.
Obviously, Browne was blessed with preternatural talent, which had something to do with this phenomenon. But many people who heard that record didn’t realize that Browne had already spent several years on the outskirts of the big time, playing on and writing for the records of others.
As a result, his talent was well-known in the industry by the time he finally found the right fit for him to record on his own. When given the chance, he was more than ready. That entire debut album is laced with songs similar to “Looking Into You”. On the song, Browne’s old-soul observations bump against an undeniable sense of longing that those of his generation could instantly recognize.
“Looking Into You” represents a young man’s efforts to find some meaning in his current life by inspecting from whence he came. Ultimately, he realizes that a loving relationship is the only thing that truly makes perfect sense to him.
Exploring the Lyrics of “Looking Into You”
The narrator of “Looking Into You” begins the song by going back to his old haunts to search for something that he can’t even define. “I’ve come to see where my beginnings have gone,” he says by way of explanation. He comes upon a family with kids, perhaps suggesting to him one source of meaning that he hasn’t tried yet.
When they ask him if he “came very far,” he can’t really answer. Not because he can’t count the miles, but because he’s reflecting on the advancement of his consciousness. While this meeting makes him happy, it’s only a temporary fix. “But as I stepped back outside to the grey morning sun,” Browne sings. “I heard that highway whisper and sigh.”
Browne then reflects on the fleeting nature of everything, from residences to relationships. “It’s a hotel at best,” he sighs about life. “You’re here as a guest/You oughta make yourself at home/While you’re waiting for the rest.” He identifies with the “millions” in eternal search, but at least he has a harbor. “Now here I stand at the edge of my embattled illusions,” he sings. “Looking into you.”
The final verse introduces us to the “great song traveler,” who sounds like the kind of professional troubadour that Browne was about to become. Even as he appreciates what music will bring to him, the narrator knows that it will always have to settle for second place. “But words and music will never touch the beauty that I’ve seen,” Browne concludes. “Looking into you.”
Jackson Browne has released so much amazing music that individual songs like “Looking Into You” can get a little taken for granted. Then you listen to it anew, and you realize what a brilliant effort it is. And even more impressive coming from a guy on his first time out.
Photo by ABC Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images
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