About the song
Released in 1974, “Remember” was a defining moment for Bay City Rollers, marking their transformation into one of the biggest teen sensations of the decade. While the band had been working to establish themselves in the early ’70s, it was this track that truly set them on their path to international stardom. With its catchy hooks, driving beat, and singalong chorus, “Remember” laid the foundation for the tartan-clad hysteria that would soon follow.
Musically, the song is a perfect blend of glam rock, pop, and bubblegum energy. The upbeat tempo, handclaps, and layered harmonies create an irresistible, feel-good atmosphere. From the opening chant of “Remember, sha-la-la-la-la”, it’s clear that this is a song designed for audience participation, making it an instant concert favorite. The track carries the youthful enthusiasm that defined the Bay City Rollers’ signature sound, heavily influenced by British beat music and American rock ‘n’ roll.
Lyrically, “Remember” is a nostalgic celebration of love and memories, tapping into the universal theme of recalling cherished moments. The simplicity of the lyrics is part of its charm—it’s not meant to be overly complicated or deep, but rather a joyful, feel-good anthem that perfectly encapsulated the carefree spirit of the era.
The song was a commercial success, charting well in the UK and several other countries, helping to establish Bay City Rollers as pop royalty. It was one of the early tracks that fueled their rise to global superstardom, leading to what would become known as “Rollermania”, a cultural phenomenon that saw the band’s popularity explode, particularly among teenage audiences.
Looking back, “Remember” remains a quintessential ‘70s pop anthem, embodying the fun, excitement, and youthful energy of the Bay City Rollers at their peak. It’s a track that still sparks nostalgia, a reminder of a time when music was all about having a good time and singing along with friends.
Video
Lyrics
Shimmy-shammy-shomWe used to make up songs(Remember)Sha-la-la-la-la-looI used to sing to you(Remember)Hi-de-hi-de-hoWe used to kiss hello(Remember)Then we said goodbyeAnd made each other cry(Remember)Sha-la-la-la-la-la-la-laShoo be do ayeRemember all the little thingsWe used to say?Sha la-la-la-la-la-la-laShoo be do ayeWonder why we ever had to say goodbye?The singer sang his songWe used to sing along(Remember)The sparkle in your eyesWas like the starry skies(Remember)We would hum alongTo the beating of the drum(Remember)The band began to playAnd we began to sway(Remember)Sha la-la-la-la-la-la-laShoo-be-do-ayRemember all the little thingsWe used to say?Sha la-la-la-la-la-la-laShoo be do ayeWonder why we ever had to say goodbye?Sha-la-la-la-la-la-la-laShoo be doo ayRemember all the little thingsWe used to say?Sha-la-la-la-la-la-la-laShoo-be-do-ayeWonder why we ever had to say goodbye?Sha-la-la-la-la-la-la-laShoo-be-do-ayRemember all the little thingsWe used to say?Sha-la-la-la-la-la-la-laShoo-be-do-ayeWonder why we ever had to say goodbye?Sha-la-la-la-la-la-la-laShoo-be-do-ayRemember all the little thingsWe used to say?Sha-la-la-la-la-la-la-laShoo-be-do-ayeWonder why we ever had to say goodbye?