“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
There’s something uniquely evocative about a song that captures a fleeting moment of longing. “Never Comes The Day” by The Moody Blues is one such track that resonates deeply with those who have experienced the bittersweet nature of unfulfilled desires. It’s a piece that seems to understand the human condition, speaking to the heart with its poignant melody and reflective lyrics. This song, nestled within the album On the Threshold of a Dream, is a perfect example of The Moody Blues’ ability to blend rock with orchestral elements, creating a sound that is both timeless and innovative.
About The Composition
- Title: Never Comes The Day
- Composer: Justin Hayward
- Premiere Date: April 25, 1969
- Album: On the Threshold of a Dream
- Genre: Progressive Rock
Background
“Never Comes The Day” was composed by Justin Hayward, one of the key members of The Moody Blues, and it stands as a testament to the band’s pioneering spirit in the late 1960s. The song is part of their album On the Threshold of a Dream, which was released during a period when The Moody Blues were exploring and solidifying their unique sound—a fusion of rock and classical music. The album itself was well-received, continuing the band’s streak of success following their groundbreaking work on Days of Future Passed.
The song captures the sense of yearning and the passage of time, themes that were particularly resonant during the era of its release. The late 1960s were a time of social upheaval and change, and music like “Never Comes The Day” provided a reflective soundtrack to the uncertainties of the period. Initially, the song was not a major hit on its own but has since been recognized as a crucial piece in The Moody Blues’ discography.
Musical Style
“Never Comes The Day” is defined by its gentle acoustic guitar intro, which sets the tone for the entire piece. The song progresses with lush orchestral arrangements, a hallmark of The Moody Blues’ style, blending rock with symphonic elements seamlessly. The structure of the song is relatively straightforward, yet it’s the combination of Hayward’s emotive vocals and the intricate layering of instruments that gives it its depth.
The instrumentation includes acoustic guitar, bass, mellotron, and percussion, each contributing to the rich tapestry of sound. The mellotron, in particular, adds a dreamlike quality to the piece, enhancing the introspective nature of the lyrics. The song’s progression mirrors the ebb and flow of emotional tension, creating a sense of anticipation that never quite resolves—perfectly aligning with the theme of unattainable desires.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Never Comes The Day” explore themes of love, loss, and the passage of time. Hayward’s writing is both poetic and relatable, capturing the essence of longing with lines like “But I know for certain, goodbye is a crime.” The song reflects the universal experience of waiting for a day that may never come, a day that represents fulfillment and closure.
The narrative of the lyrics is simple yet profound, speaking to anyone who has ever waited for something just out of reach. The interplay between the hopeful melody and the melancholic lyrics creates a powerful emotional impact, making the song a memorable piece of The Moody Blues’ repertoire.
Performance History
“Never Comes The Day” has been performed live by The Moody Blues in various concerts, often as part of their more intimate acoustic sets. The song, while not as commercially successful as some of their other hits, holds a special place in the hearts of fans. Over the years, it has been appreciated for its lyrical depth and musical sophistication, often highlighted in retrospectives of the band’s work.
Cultural Impact
While “Never Comes The Day” may not have achieved the same level of fame as some of The Moody Blues’ other tracks, it has influenced many musicians in the progressive rock genre. The band’s ability to blend classical music with rock elements was groundbreaking at the time and paved the way for future explorations in the genre. The song’s introspective nature also resonates with listeners, making it a popular choice for covers and interpretations by other artists.
Legacy
The enduring importance of “Never Comes The Day” lies in its emotional resonance and its role in The Moody Blues’ evolution as artists. The song continues to be appreciated by fans old and new, and it remains a staple in discussions of the band’s influence on progressive rock. Its themes of time and longing are timeless, ensuring that it remains relevant and poignant for generations to come.
Conclusion
“Never Comes The Day” is a song that invites listeners to pause and reflect on the moments of anticipation and longing in their own lives. It’s a beautifully crafted piece that combines thoughtful lyrics with a rich musical arrangement, embodying the best of what The Moody Blues had to offer. For those who haven’t yet explored this track, it’s a journey worth taking—perhaps starting with the hauntingly beautiful live performances available.
Video
Lyrics
Work away today, work away tomorrow.
Never comes the day for my love and me.
I feel her gently sighing as the evening slips away.
If only you knew what’s inside of me now
You wouldn’t want to know me somehow,
But
You will love me tonight,
We alone will be alright,
In the end.
Give just a little bit more
Take a little bit less
From each other tonight
Admit what you’re feeling
And see what’s in front of you,
It’s never out of your sight.
You know it’s true,
We all know that it’s true.
Work away today, think about tomorrow
Never comes the day for my love and me.
I feel her gently sighing as the evening slips away.
If only you knew what’s inside of me now
You wouldn’t want to know me somehow,
But
You will love me tonight,
We alone will be alright,
In the end.
Give just a little bit more
Take a little bit less
From each other tonight
Admit what you’re feeling
And see what’s in front of you,
It’s never out of your sight.
You know it’s true,
We all know that it’s true.