“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Few songs capture the turbulent feelings of uncertainty and longing quite like The Moody Blues’ iconic track, “Question.” The song, penned by Justin Hayward and released in 1970, resonates with anyone who’s ever pondered the grand questions of existence, love, and peace. Listening to “Question” is like stepping into a time capsule of the 1970s, an era defined by social upheaval and a thirst for meaning. For those who grew up with The Moody Blues or are discovering them anew, this song remains a powerful reminder of music’s ability to capture the human experience.
About The Composition
- Title: Question
- Composer: Justin Hayward
- Premiere Date: April 24, 1970 (UK)
- Album/Opus/Collection: A Question of Balance
- Genre: Rock (Progressive Rock/Art Rock)
Background
“Question” was born at a time of profound societal change. Written by Hayward during a period when people around the world were grappling with the Vietnam War, civil rights issues, and the fear of nuclear conflict, the song embodies a yearning for peace and understanding. Hayward himself described the song as a response to the questions in his own life and the world around him. Upon release, “Question” resonated strongly with listeners, quickly climbing the UK charts and becoming one of The Moody Blues’ most beloved hits.
The song’s release was met with widespread acclaim, praised for both its lyrical depth and its bold fusion of folk-rock elements with the ambitious, symphonic style that The Moody Blues had become known for. A Question of Balance, the album on which the song appeared, became an instant classic, cementing the band’s place in the pantheon of progressive rock.
Musical Style
Musically, “Question” is a dynamic piece that showcases The Moody Blues’ distinctive approach to songcraft. The track opens with an energetic, rapid-fire acoustic guitar rhythm that propels listeners into the core of its philosophical exploration. This vigorous tempo eventually gives way to a softer, more reflective section, where Hayward’s voice questions themes of love and peace.
The composition is rich in texture, weaving acoustic guitar, orchestration, and layered vocal harmonies into a soundscape that feels both grand and introspective. The juxtaposition of the urgent first section with the more contemplative second half creates a feeling of tension and release, mirroring the lyrical themes of seeking answers in a confusing world.
Lyrics/Libretto
“Question” confronts some of life’s deepest uncertainties through its lyrics. Hayward’s words explore existential dilemmas, juxtaposing personal reflections with broader social concerns. The lyrics convey a desire for peace and love in a world fraught with conflict and confusion. Lines such as “Why do we never get an answer / When we’re knocking at the door?” evoke a universal longing for clarity and resolution. This interplay between the personal and the universal gives “Question” an emotional depth that resonates with listeners across generations.
Performance History
“Question” has seen numerous live performances, with each rendition capturing a different shade of its emotional landscape. The Moody Blues performed the song frequently during their concerts, and it remains a staple in classic rock playlists and radio stations worldwide. Live versions often bring an even more raw and visceral energy to the piece, with Hayward’s impassioned vocals and the band’s tight musicianship keeping audiences captivated. Its enduring popularity at live shows underscores its impact as both a musical and cultural landmark.
Cultural Impact
Beyond the world of music, “Question” has woven itself into the broader cultural tapestry. Its themes of seeking truth and peace have made it a touchstone for those who feel a disconnect with the status quo or a yearning for something more profound. The song has also found its way into various media, underscoring scenes in film and television that call for introspection or a search for meaning. In many ways, “Question” has become an anthem for dreamers, activists, and anyone who dares to ask the big questions.
Legacy
“Question” continues to hold a special place in music history as one of The Moody Blues’ defining works. Its relevance has not diminished with time; in fact, the themes it addresses—love, peace, and the search for answers—are as pertinent now as they were in 1970. Younger generations are discovering its message anew, often finding that its timeless appeal lies in its ability to articulate the doubts and dreams we all share.
Conclusion
Listening to “Question” is an experience that invites reflection and introspection. The song encourages us to confront the uncertainties in our own lives, to question, to seek, and perhaps to find solace in the journey itself. For those eager to explore this masterpiece further, the original recording on A Question of Balance is essential listening, as are live renditions that capture the energy and emotion of the piece in full force. “Question” is more than a song—it’s an invitation to ponder life’s most profound mysteries.
Video
Lyrics
Why do we never get an answer when we’re knocking at the door
With a thousand million questions about hate and death and war?
‘Cause when we stop and look around us, there is nothing that we need
In a world of persecution that is burning in its greed
Why do we never get an answer when we’re knocking at the door?
Because the truth, it’s hard to swallow, that’s what the war of love is for
It’s not the way that you say it
When you do those things to me
It’s more the way that you mean it
When you tell me what will be
And when you stop and think about it
You won’t believe it’s true
That all the love you’ve been giving
Has all been meant for you
I’m looking for someone to change my life
I’m looking for a miracle in my life
And if you could see what it’s done to me
To lose the the love I knew could safely lead me through
Between the silence of the mountains
And the crashing of the sea
There lies a land I once lived in
And she’s waiting there for me
But in the grey of the morning
My mind becomes confused
Between the dead and the sleeping
And the road that I must choose
I’m looking for someone to change my life
I’m looking for a miracle in my life
And if you could see what it’s done to me
To lose the love I knew could safely lead me to
The land that I once knew
To learn as we grow old the secrets of our souls
It’s not the way that you say it
When you do those things to me
It’s more the way you really mean it
When you tell me what will be
Why do we never get an answer when we’re knocking at the door
With a thousand million questions about hate and death and war?
‘Cause when we stop and look around us, there is nothing that we need
In a world of persecution that is burning in its greed
Why do we never get an answer when we’re knocking at the door?