“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
In the early 1960s, the British music scene was a melting pot of rhythm and blues influences, with bands constantly seeking that one song to catapult them to stardom. For The Moody Blues, “Go Now!” was that song—a soulful plea that resonated with audiences worldwide and marked the beginning of their illustrious career.
About The Composition
- Title: Go Now!
- Composer: Larry Banks and Milton Bennett
- Premiere Date: November 1964 (The Moody Blues version)
- Album: The Magnificent Moodies (1965)
- Genre: Rhythm and Blues
Background
Originally penned by Larry Banks and Milton Bennett, “Go Now” was first recorded by Bessie Banks in early 1964. Her rendition, produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, showcased a heartfelt delivery that caught the attention of Denny Laine, the lead vocalist and guitarist for The Moody Blues. Laine was so moved by Banks’s performance that he urged his bandmates to record their own version.
Released in November 1964, The Moody Blues’ rendition of “Go Now!” quickly climbed the UK Singles Chart, reaching the coveted No. 1 spot in late January 1965. Its success wasn’t confined to the UK; the single peaked at No. 10 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and No. 2 in Canada, establishing the band as a formidable force in the music industry.
Musical Style
“Go Now!” is distinguished by its melancholic piano introduction, which sets a somber tone that permeates the track. Denny Laine’s impassioned vocals convey a sense of urgency and sorrow, effectively capturing the song’s theme of a love lost. The arrangement is complemented by harmonious backing vocals and a steady rhythm section, creating a sound that is both soulful and haunting. This combination of emotive delivery and instrumental cohesion contributed significantly to the song’s widespread appeal.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Go Now!” narrate the poignant story of a relationship on the brink of dissolution. The narrator implores their partner to leave, acknowledging the inevitable end of their union. Lines like “We’ve already said ‘so long'” underscore the finality of the breakup, while the repeated plea “Go now” emphasizes the urgency and emotional weight of the situation. This narrative of heartache and acceptance resonated deeply with listeners, adding to the song’s impact.
Performance History
Following the success of “Go Now!”, The Moody Blues included the track in their live performances. However, as the band’s musical direction evolved, especially after Denny Laine’s departure in 1966, the song gradually faded from their setlists. Laine, on the other hand, continued to feature “Go Now!” in his performances with subsequent bands, including Wings. Notably, during Wings’ 1976 tour, Laine delivered a memorable rendition of the song, which was later included in the live album Wings over America.
Cultural Impact
“Go Now!” has left an indelible mark on popular culture. Its inclusion in films such as 45 Years (2015) and Bull (2021) attests to its enduring relevance. Additionally, the song has been covered by various artists over the years, each bringing their unique interpretation to the classic track. These renditions have helped to introduce “Go Now!” to new generations, ensuring its place in the annals of music history.
Legacy
Decades after its release, “Go Now!” remains a testament to The Moody Blues’ early artistry and their ability to convey deep emotion through music. The song’s universal theme of love and loss continues to resonate with audiences, highlighting the timeless nature of its composition. Its success paved the way for the band’s subsequent explorations into more progressive sounds, showcasing their versatility and enduring appeal.
Conclusion
Reflecting on “Go Now!”, one can’t help but appreciate its raw emotional power and the pivotal role it played in The Moody Blues’ career. For those unfamiliar with this classic, I highly recommend listening to the original recording to fully grasp its impact. Additionally, exploring live renditions, such as those by Denny Laine with Wings, can offer a fresh perspective on this timeless piece.
Video
Lyrics
We’ve already said
“Goodbye”
Since you’ve got to go
Oh, you’d better go now (go now, go now)
Go now, ooh (before you see me cry)
I don’t want you to tell me just what you intend to do now
‘Cause how many times do I have to tell you, darling, darling
I’m still in love with you, now? Whoa
We’ve already said
“So long”
I don’t wanna see you go
Oh, you’d better go now (go now, go now)
Go now, ooh (don’t you even try)
Telling me that you really don’t want me to end this way-ay
‘Cause darling, darling
Can’t you see I want you to stay? Yeah, yeah
Since you’ve got to go
Oh, you had better go now (go now, go now)
Go now, ooh (before you see me cry)
I don’t want you to tell me just what you intend to do now
‘Cause how many times do I have to tell you, darling, darling
I’m still in love, still in love with you now?
Ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh
I don’t wanna see you go
But, darling, you’d better go now