"By Your Side" is the fifth studio album by American rock band, The Black Crowes. It was released on January 12, 1999, under the label Columbia Records, hitting the shelves after their previous album, "Three Snakes and One Charm," releasing in 1996.
This album marked a significant shift in the band's sound, leaning more heavily towards Soul and Rock influences, comparing to their earlier, Blues-influenced works. "By Your Side" was oriented more towards the mainstream, with many considering it a return to roots for the band, harkening back to the simpler rock 'n' roll sound of their first album "Shake Your Money Maker."
The album "By Your Side" contains songs that express lyrical themes such as love, romantic relationships, as well as introspection. Among the notable tracks in the album include the title track "By Your Side," "Kickin' My Heart Around," and "Only a Fool."
The album received a generally positive response from critics, although it did not achieve the commercial success like their earlier albums. Many praised its soulful and rocking elements, while some felt that it lacked the innovative spark displayed in their earlier works.
Following its release, The Black Crowes embarked on a tour to promote "By Your Side", which further solidified their reputation as a compelling and energetic live band. Despite shifting musical landscapes of the time, the album helped cement their reputation as a consistently great rock and roll band.
