The Grass Roots released “Let’s Live For Today” in the summer of 1967 and it became their first Top 10 hit! The original Italian version is about a girl going through a rough time, with the singer offering comfort. The song’s hook, however is universal: “Sha, la, la, la, la…” leading into the title.
This is sung with a huge group chorus – a songwriting technique that would remain timeless. With these powerful dynamics, the song could have been in Swahili and still hit.
(Source)
Lyrics for “The Grass Roots”
“When I think of all the worries
People seem to find
And how they’re in a hurry
To complicate their minds
By chasing after money
And dreams that can’t come true
I’m glad that we are different
We’ve better things to do
May others plan their future
I’m busy loving you.
(1,2,3,4) Sha la la la la la live for today
Sha la la la la la live for today
And don’t worry ’bout tomorrow, hey
Sha la la la la la live for today
Live for today.
We were never meant to worry
The way that people do
And I don’t mean to hurry
As long as I’m with you.
We’ll take it nice and easy
And use my simple plan
You’ll be my lovin’ woman
I’ll be your lovin’ man.
We’ll take the most from living
Have pleasure while we can.
(1,2,3,4) Sha la la la la la live for today
Sha la la la la la live for today
And don’t worry ’bout tomorrow, hey
Sha la la la la la live for today
Live for today
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