About the song
There’s something timeless about the crackle of a needle hitting vinyl, the anticipation before the first chord, and the unmistakable energy of a true rock ‘n roll anthem. For fans of classic pop-rock, “Rock ‘N Roll Love Letter” by the Bay City Rollers isn’t just another hit—it’s a heartbeat from a different era, a love note penned in amplified guitar and harmony-rich vocals. Released during the group’s meteoric rise in the 1970s, this track holds a special place in the band’s discography, not just for its catchy hook and punchy rhythm, but because it marks a distinct chapter—the brief yet unforgettable tenure of Ian Mitchell, the young Northern Irish musician who stepped in during a crucial moment for the group.
At just 17, Ian Mitchell brought a fresh but slightly edgier flair to the group’s sugary teen-idol image. His presence on “Rock ‘N Roll Love Letter” added a sense of urgency to the music, a rawness that bridged the gap between the band’s bubblegum beginnings and a more rock-leaning evolution. The song itself, originally written by Tim Moore, becomes something entirely different in the hands of the Rollers. Their version explodes with teenage passion and pop polish, yet there’s a maturity in the delivery—especially in this lineup—that gives the track staying power far beyond its Top 40 lifespan.
But more than anything, “Rock ‘N Roll Love Letter” is exactly what its title promises: a bold, melodic confession. It’s a letter not written on paper, but in power chords and harmonies, addressed to every listener who’s ever found refuge in the backseat of a car with the radio turned up too loud. For many, this song wasn’t just a chart success—it was a personal soundtrack to youth, love, and rebellion. And for those who remember the unique voice and spirit of Ian Mitchell, it’s also a reminder of how a single song can carry both memory and melody across the decades.
So whether you’re revisiting the track or discovering it anew, this rock ‘n roll love letter still delivers.
Video
Lyrics
Hey sister poet dear, brother poet toThese tears and words I’m makin’Want to be with you‘Cause I need to spend my bodyI’m a music makin’ manAnd no peace can release me likeThis amplifier canThis is my rock ‘n roll love letterTo youThis is my rock ‘n roll love letterTo youGonna sign it, gonna seal it,Gonna mail it awayGonna mail it todayDear mama, papaHey your boy’s doin’ fineAnd the energy you gave himKeeps him trying to unwind‘Cause I sing a natural rhythmPlay a magnetic chordBut I keep on rock ‘n rollingTill my genes explodeRepeat and fade