The exact definition of "Shoorah", according to Dan Phillips' blog Home of the Groove, is a bit of a mystery; he concludes that it's most likely a nonsense word that is linked with certain types of music identified with New Orleans-style Mardi Gras music.
Taupin is merely using the word for flavor, to give us another ode to an object of desire a la "Island Girl" or "Amoreena" but this time a bit more domesticated-
She's all girl, woman and mother
She's had my children
And she's been my lover
The writer's mama likes her, and asks the titular question in regards to her- or perhaps if she has a certain quality that she considers "shoorah".
Not exactly a shining beacon of complexity or clarity this time. But fortunately, Elton delivers a reflective, gospel-tinged musical accompaniment, complete with gospel-choir style backing vocals, that recast the say-nothing lyrics in a very favorable light. It's a strong melody, and often that covers a multitude of sins. Vocally, he wisely stays out of the way for the most part, except for some falsetto crooning at the end which interacts with the choir nicely.
While I wasn't especially impressed with this one upon my initial listens to Blue Moves, it really grew on me and stands as a highlight of this often downbeat LP.
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A shoorah in hebrew is a sentence or a biblic verse. I dont know if that helps
Interesting; thank you!
a 'shura' is a council or debate among many on a topic. (pronounced the same). So, theoretically, if "He" were talking of o lover from a different culture that he was presenting. Others may feel obliged to debate their union. So expecting an inquisition . . "Where's the shura she sang".
I have no definite insight, merely a musing. It's a nice song
With the mother asking about the Shoorah over and over I infer that the Shoorah has either died/left or that the mother has dementia. This is an understated and yet devastating lyric by Taupin. Absolutely crushing.
With the mother asking about the Shoorah over and over I infer that the Shoorah has either died/left or that the mother has dementia. This is an understated and yet devastating lyric by Taupin. Absolutely crushing.
In Arabic it means asking someone for a piece of advice, or guidance on a course of action.
It's a beautiful song. Since we don't have any clarification from Taupin, I'll offer my interpretation: First, even though the subject of the song is described as all girl, woman, mother, and lover, and that his mama really likes her, she is far from perfect. She is sinful and spiteful and described as growing "like pampas". Pampas is a tall, tough grass that grows in adverse conditions. It has a pretty white flower head but the grass blades have a sharp, serrated edge that will slice your hand open if handled incorrectly.
My take is that with all the history between the man and woman in the song - they have been lovers and have children together, mama senses that there is something missing in the relationship. "Where's the Shoorah?" could be interpreted as "where's the passion?" or "where's the commitment?" There is just an intangible component that makes a relationship whole that is missing here. Mama refers to this is "the Shoorah"
Whatever the meaning, I wouldn't worry too much about it, just enjoy singing along to your heart's content.
Nice, thank you, "Unknown"!
That was always my take on "Where's the shoorah" since I was 15 years old. I am now 60, and now feel that in my own life with my husband. Where's the shoorah? It's sad. It's one of my many favourite Elton John songs.
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