Bad Company – Seagull

About The Song

“Seagull” was written by Paul Rodgers and Mick Ralphs, performed by Bad Company, and released in June 1974 as part of their self-titled debut album Bad Company on Island Records in the UK and Swan Song Records in the US. It was not released as a single but became a fan favorite, often highlighted for its acoustic beauty amidst the album’s hard rock tracks.

The song was recorded at Headley Grange in Hampshire, England, and mixed at Island Studios, produced by Eddie Kramer. The track features Paul Rodgers on acoustic guitar and lead vocals, Mick Ralphs on acoustic guitar, Boz Burrell on bass, and Simon Kirke on drums, with a minimalist, folk-rock arrangement. It runs 4:03 on the album version.

The lyrics paint a poetic picture of freedom and escape, with lines like “Seagull, you fly across the horizon.” Rodgers and Ralphs crafted the song as a reflective piece, inspired by the natural surroundings of Headley Grange and the band’s desire to balance their heavier sound with something softer, drawing from their pre-Bad Company influences.

The recording was done live with a small setup, emphasizing acoustic guitars and subtle percussion, creating a stark contrast to the album’s title track. This simplicity allowed Rodgers’ vocals and the song’s imagery to shine, making it a standout moment on the album.

Upon release, “Seagull” helped contribute to Bad Company’s quadruple platinum status, though its impact grew through radio play and live performances rather than chart success. It has appeared on compilations like 10 from 6 (1985) and The Original Bad Co. Anthology (1999), often extended in live renditions.

Bad Company, formed in 1973 by former members of Free, Mott the Hoople, and King Crimson, promoted the album with extensive tours. The music video, though not widely released in 1974, includes live footage from that era, later compiled in retrospectives like the 2006 DVD Live at Wembley.

The track has been covered by artists like Tesla and featured in films like Almost Famous (2000). Its enduring appeal lies in its gentle melody and evocative lyrics, earning it a respected place among classic rock ballads.

Video

Lyric

Seagull, you fly across the horizon
Into the misty morning sun
Nobody asks you where you are going
Nobody knows where you’re from

And here is the sunshine
And you’re the only one
And here is the sunshine
And you’re the only one

Seagull, you fly into the horizon
Into the misty morning sun
Nobody asks you where you are going
Nobody knows where you’re from

Now you’re on your way
Take me with you someday
Oh, seagull, take me away

(Instrumental break)

Seagull, you fly across the horizon
Into the misty morning sun
Nobody asks you where you are going
Nobody knows where you’re from

And here is the sunshine
And you’re the only one
And here is the sunshine
And you’re the only one

Now you’re on your way
Take me with you someday
Oh, seagull, take me away