About The Song
“Brand New Key” is a pop song written and performed by American folk singer Melanie Safka. Initially featured on Melanie’s album “Gather Me”, produced by her husband Peter Schekeryk, it’s also known as “The Rollerskate Song” due to its catchy chorus. It quickly became a significant hit, reaching No. 1 in the U.S. charts for three weeks and No. 3 in Britain for one week. Melanie received recognition for the song, winning Billboard’s No. 1 Top Female Vocalist award for 1972 and earning gold certifications for both the single and her album.
The song is whimsical and light-hearted, sung from the perspective of a girl on roller skates trying to catch the attention of a boy. Despite its playful tone, there’s a deeper meaning behind the lyrics, reflecting on themes of freedom, independence, and sexuality. Melanie claimed the inspiration for the song came during a 27-day fast on water, emphasizing the unusual circumstances that led to its creation. “Brand New Key” remains a memorable hit, showcasing Melanie’s unique style and contributing to her successful career.
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Lyrics
I rode my bicycle past your window last night
I roller skated to your door at daylight
It almost seems like you’re avoiding me
I’m okay alone, but you got something I need
Well, I got a brand new pair of roller skates
You got a brand new key
I think that we should get together and try them out you see
I been looking around awhile
You got something for me
Oh! I got a brand new pair of roller skates
You got a brand new key
I ride my bike, I roller skate, don’t drive no car
Don’t go too fast, but I go pretty far
For somebody who don’t drive
I been all around the world
Some people say, I done all right for a girl
Well, I got a brand new pair of roller skates
You got a brand new key
I think that we should get together and try them out you see
I been looking around awhile
You got something for me
Oh! I got a brand new pair of roller skates
You got a brand new key
I asked your mother if you were at home
She said, yes… but you weren’t alone
Oh, sometimes I think that you’re avoiding me
I’m okay alone, but you’ve got something I need
Well, I got a brand new pair of roller skates
You got a brand new key
I think that we should get together and try them out to see
La la la la la la la la, la la la la la la
Oh! I got a brand new pair of roller skates
You got a brand new key