“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Go Now” is a song famously recorded by the British rock band The Moody Blues. Released as a single in 1964, it became the band’s first major hit, reaching the top of the UK Singles Chart in January 1965. This song is widely recognized for its melancholic tone and powerful vocal performance by lead singer Denny Laine. Its success marked a significant milestone for The Moody Blues, establishing them in the music industry and setting the stage for their future endeavors.
Originally written and recorded by American singer Bessie Banks, “Go Now” was brought to life by The Moody Blues with a unique arrangement that featured a haunting piano riff and emotionally charged vocals. This rendition captured the essence of the song’s plea to a departing lover, resonating with audiences worldwide and solidifying its place in the annals of classic rock music.
About The Composition
- Title: Go Now
- Composer: Larry Banks and Milton Bennett
- Premiere Date: 1964 (by The Moody Blues)
- Album/Opus/Collection: The Magnificent Moodies
- Genre: Rhythm and Blues, Rock
Background
“Go Now” was initially recorded by Bessie Banks in 1964, produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. The song caught the attention of The Moody Blues during their tour in England, leading to their decision to record it. The band’s version was released in November 1964 and quickly gained traction, climbing the charts and reaching number one in the UK by January 1965. The single’s success was instrumental in propelling The Moody Blues to fame, allowing them to tour extensively and gain international recognition.
The Moody Blues’ take on “Go Now” was distinctive for its dramatic piano introduction and emotive vocal delivery. The recording process involved layering multiple vocal tracks to enhance the song’s emotional depth, a technique that contributed to its distinctive sound. The band’s version remains the most well-known, overshadowing the original by Bessie Banks.
Musical Style
The musical style of “Go Now” is characterized by its blend of rhythm and blues with rock elements. The song features a prominent piano accompaniment, driven by a simple yet effective chord progression. The arrangement focuses heavily on vocal harmonies and the emotive expression of the lead singer, creating an atmosphere of longing and heartache that complements the lyrical content.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Go Now” explore themes of heartbreak and farewell. The song’s narrator implores their lover to leave, acknowledging the inevitable end of their relationship. The poignant and direct language captures the emotional turmoil of separation, resonating with listeners who have experienced similar sentiments. The repeated plea “Go now” emphasizes the urgency and finality of the situation.
Performance History
“Go Now” has been performed by The Moody Blues during numerous live shows and concert tours. One of the most notable performances was on the television show “Ready Steady Go!” in 1965, which helped boost the song’s popularity. The band continued to include it in their setlists throughout the 1960s, and it remains a staple in their live repertoire, showcasing its enduring appeal to audiences.
Cultural Impact
The cultural impact of “Go Now” is significant, as it introduced The Moody Blues to a global audience and established them as a prominent band of the 1960s. The song’s inclusion in various compilations and media appearances has kept it in the public consciousness over the decades. Its melancholic tone and emotional delivery have influenced numerous artists and contributed to the development of the rock ballad genre.
Legacy
Today, “Go Now” is regarded as a classic of its era, remembered for its heartfelt lyrics and memorable melody. The song’s success helped pave the way for The Moody Blues’ later work, including their transition into progressive rock. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and the emotional connection it continues to foster with listeners.
Conclusion
“Go Now” by The Moody Blues is a quintessential example of 1960s rock music that continues to resonate with audiences. Its emotional depth and powerful delivery make it a standout track in the band’s catalog. For those unfamiliar with The Moody Blues, “Go Now” serves as an excellent entry point to explore their rich musical legacy. I encourage you to listen to this classic hit and discover the lasting impact of The Moody Blues on rock music history.
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