My Favorite Long Songs (Part One)

So what is the average length of a song these days? The average length of a popular song, according to the most recent Billboard Hot 100, is about 3 minutes and 30 seconds. Hit songs are about 3 minutes long because of two major factors: the historic popularity of the 45 rpm record and the monetization methods applied by radio stations and record producers throughout the 20th century. Here I’ll discuss some of my all-time favorite lengthy tunes.

“Thick as a Brick” is a progressive rock masterpiece by Jethro Tull, released in 1972 as a concept album. The album consists of a single continuous track, with intricate and complex musical arrangements that showcase the band’s virtuosity. Clocking in at over 43 minutes, the song seamlessly weaves together various musical themes,

time signatures, and lyrical elements, creating a cohesive and epic musical journey. The lyrics, penned by the band’s frontman Ian Anderson, satirize the concept of concept albums themselves, poking fun at the pretentiousness often associated with the genre.

The album’s cover features a fictional newspaper, “The St. Cleve Chronicle,” with articles and stories related to the fictitious protagonist, Gerald Bostock. “Thick as a Brick” remains a landmark in the progressive rock genre, celebrated for its ambitious composition and innovative storytelling.

“Karn Evil 9” is a progressive rock epic by Emerson, Lake & Palmer (ELP), featured on their 1973 album “Brain Salad Surgery.” The song is divided into three distinct impressions and stands out for its ambitious scope and complex musical arrangements. Running approximately 29 minutes in its entirety, the composition showcases the technical prowess of the band members –

Keith Emerson’s virtuosic keyboard work, Greg Lake’s powerful vocals, and Carl Palmer’s intricate drumming. Lyrically, the song delves into themes of technology, dystopia, and the potential consequences of human reliance on machines. “Karn Evil 9” is renowned for its dynamic shifts,

blending rock, classical, and electronic elements, making it a quintessential example of progressive rock’s fusion of different musical styles and influences.

“Close to the Edge” is a progressive rock masterpiece by the British band Yes, released in 1972 as the title track of their fifth studio album. Running over 18 minutes, the song is divided into four distinct sections, each showcasing intricate instrumental passages, complex time signatures, and Jon Anderson’s ethereal vocals. The composition is marked by its intricate arrangements,

combining progressive rock, symphonic elements, and folk influences. The lyrics, penned by Anderson, are known for their abstract and poetic nature, adding a mystical dimension to the music.

“Close to the Edge” is celebrated for its ambitious and innovative approach, contributing to Yes’s reputation as pioneers of progressive rock during the 1970s.

“Green Grass and High Tides” is a Southern rock anthem by the Outlaws, featured on their 1975 debut album, “Outlaws.” The song, written by founding member Hughie Thomasson is known for its extended guitar solos and intricate instrumental sections, is a showcase of the band’s musical prowess. The album version of “Green Grass and High Tides”