A Whimsical Journey: “Bicycle Song (Soon Now)” and The Stone Poneys’ Gentle Beginnings
Before the soaring harmonies and indelible hits that would propel Linda Ronstadt to superstardom, there was The Stone Poneys, a folk-rock trio where her remarkable voice first found its public stage. Their debut album, “The Stone Poneys,” released in 1967, is a treasure trove of early gems, showcasing the raw talent and acoustic charm that would eventually blossom into one of music’s most enduring careers. Among these early tracks, “Bicycle Song (Soon Now)” stands out as a delightful, albeit lesser-known, piece. While this song, and indeed the debut album itself, did not achieve significant chart success upon its initial release, a later reissue of the album in the 1970s did reach No. 172 on the Billboard album chart, making this formative work more widely available to those who had come to know Ronstadt through her later hits.
For those of us who appreciate the delicate artistry of early folk-rock, “Bicycle Song (Soon Now)” offers a glimpse into a purer, more unadorned version of Linda Ronstadt‘s vocal prowess. It’s a snapshot from a time when the music scene was still largely acoustic-driven, before the full embrace of electric rock that would define much of the decade. The song itself feels like a warm, hazy memory from a simpler time, evoking images of carefree days and innocent pleasures. It’s a gentle breeze of a song, carried by the subtle interplay of acoustic guitars and Ronstadt’s effortlessly clear voice, which even then possessed an undeniable purity and emotive quality. It speaks to the understated joy of everyday moments, the quiet contemplation that often accompanies solitary journeys, and the whimsical beauty found in the seemingly mundane.
The story behind “Bicycle Song (Soon Now)” is rooted in the collaborative spirit of The Stone Poneys‘ founding members: Bobby Kimmel (rhythm guitar, vocals) and Kenny Edwards (lead guitar, vocals), who penned the track. Along with Ronstadt’s captivating vocals, their songwriting formed the core of the band’s early sound. Produced by Nick Venet, the recording of “Bicycle Song (Soon Now)” captured the nascent chemistry of the trio, highlighting their close harmonies and folk sensibilities. It’s a testament to the organic way music was often created in that era – a guitar, a voice, and a simple, heartfelt melody. While the album is perhaps best known for containing a very early version of “Different Drum” (which would later become a hit for the band), “Bicycle Song (Soon Now)” showcases the depth of their original material and their ability to craft charming, introspective pieces that resonated with a quiet dignity.
The meaning of “Bicycle Song (Soon Now)” is open to delightful interpretation, a whimsical journey into the narrator’s thoughts and observations. On the surface, it celebrates the simple pleasure of riding a bicycle, as evidenced by the memorable line, “How could I forget to mention, the bicycle is a good invention.” However, the song quickly shifts into a stream of consciousness, touching on various, seemingly disconnected thoughts and feelings: sitting in a silent movie, noticing someone in a suit and tie, making plans for a date. The lyrics weave a narrative that feels like the wandering mind during a quiet moment, reflecting on past interactions and future possibilities. There’s a subtle undertone of introspection, perhaps even a touch of social awkwardness or overthinking, as the narrator observes the world around them and grapples with their own inner musings. For older listeners, this song evokes a powerful sense of nostalgia for a simpler, less hurried time, perhaps conjuring memories of solitary bike rides through quiet neighborhoods, or the delightful, sometimes awkward, ruminations that accompany new connections. It’s a charming reminder that sometimes, the most profound observations and heartfelt sentiments can be found in the everyday, woven into the fabric of seemingly ordinary moments, much like a gentle ride on a bicycle through a sun-dappled afternoon.