“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
The Moody Blues are a legendary rock band known for their fusion of rock with classical music elements, and “It’s Up To You” is one of the standout tracks from their album “A Question of Balance.” Released in 1970, this song exemplifies the band’s exploration of philosophical themes and their ability to blend meaningful lyrics with intricate musical arrangements. The song captures the essence of personal responsibility and the choices individuals face, a reflection of the band’s introspective lyrical style.
“It’s Up To You” showcases the Moody Blues’ signature sound, characterized by lush harmonies and rich orchestration. It invites listeners to ponder their own decisions and the impact they have on their lives and the world around them.
About The Composition
- Title: It’s Up To You
- Composer: Justin Hayward
- Premiere Date: 1970
- Album/Opus/Collection: A Question of Balance
- Genre: Progressive rock
Background
“A Question of Balance” was released during a time when the Moody Blues were seeking to create music that was more accessible and could be performed live without the extensive use of studio overdubs. This was partly due to the practical challenges of performing their previous album’s complex arrangements on stage. The album reflects a more stripped-down approach while still retaining the band’s distinctive sound. “It’s Up To You,” with its straightforward musicality and thought-provoking lyrics, fits well into this context, offering a balance between complexity and simplicity.
Musical Style
The musical style of “It’s Up To You” is emblematic of the Moody Blues’ early 70s work, featuring a blend of rock and orchestral elements. The song includes rich vocal harmonies, a strong melodic line, and instrumentation that mixes traditional rock elements with more classical influences, such as acoustic guitar and flute. This combination creates a textured sound that is both engaging and reflective.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrical themes of “It’s Up To You” revolve around personal responsibility and the significance of the choices one makes. The song encourages introspection and self-awareness, asking listeners to consider their actions and the consequences they hold. This philosophical approach is typical of the Moody Blues, who frequently explored deep and meaningful topics in their work.
Performance History
“It’s Up To You” has been performed by the Moody Blues in various concerts and tours since its release. Notable performances have included those during their 1970s tours, where the band embraced a more acoustic and live-friendly format. These performances highlighted the band’s ability to translate their complex studio work into engaging live shows.
Cultural Impact
While “It’s Up To You” may not have achieved the same level of mainstream recognition as some of the Moody Blues’ other hits, it remains an important part of their catalog. The song’s message of personal accountability and decision-making resonates with listeners, and its philosophical themes have found relevance in various cultural discussions around individualism and self-awareness.
Legacy
The legacy of “It’s Up To You” endures through its continued appreciation by fans of the Moody Blues. Its exploration of personal and philosophical themes remains relevant, and its place within the album “A Question of Balance” showcases the band’s ability to craft music that is both thought-provoking and musically innovative. The song continues to inspire listeners to reflect on their choices and their impact on the world.
Conclusion
“It’s Up To You” is a compelling example of the Moody Blues’ ability to blend meaningful lyrics with intricate musical compositions. Its themes of personal responsibility and introspection encourage listeners to engage deeply with the music. I encourage those interested in the Moody Blues or thought-provoking rock music to explore this track and the entire “A Question of Balance” album for a richer understanding of the band’s artistic vision.
Video
Lyrics
When the breeze between us calls,
Love comes and lingers into our lives.
And the leaves begin to fall,
You point your finger at me.
I love you, yeah.
I love you.
In the sadness of your smile,
Love is an island way out to sea.
But it seems so long ago,
We have been ready trying to be free.
And it’s up to you,
Why won’t you say?
Make our lives turn out this way,
If they knew,
That we have got nothing to lose.
No reason to hide from what’s true.
In the world of me and you,
All is forgotten when we’re inside.
And the words that pass us by,
I am not listening to all of its lies.
And it’s up to you,
Why won’t you say?
Make our lives turn out this way.
If they knew, that we have got nothing to lose,
No reason to hide from what’s true.
Then we have got nothing to lose.