Like many music lovers, I rely on streaming services to keep my ears fresh and discover new tunes. Recently, Apple Music has been my platform of choice, doing a decent job of curating tracks that align with my established preferences. However, I often find myself wishing for algorithms to push boundaries a bit more, suggesting music that intentionally contrasts with my usual listening habits. I believe this kind of sonic exploration is key to broadening one’s musical horizons and fostering a deeper appreciation for diverse sounds.
In the meantime, Apple Music continues to serve up familiar favorites, and recently, it brought back a gem from the past: “Message to My Girl” by Split Enz. This New Zealand new wave band, with their art-rock sensibilities, delivered a song that I hadn’t heard in years, triggering a wave of nostalgia and renewed appreciation.
Split Enz, though formed in 1973, didn’t achieve mainstream success until 1980 with their album True Colours. I vividly remember their visually striking presence during that era – the outlandish clothing and unique hairstyles were as much a part of their identity as their music. True Colours was a sensation, and I recall being fascinated by its innovative laser-cut vinyl, a first for me, where the disc itself mirrored the album art’s shapes and colors.
By the time True Colours propelled them to fame, Split Enz had relocated to Australia, seeking a larger audience. This period also saw some lineup changes, most notably the addition of Neil Finn, brother of co-founder Tim Finn. Neil’s arrival proved transformative; he was an exceptional songwriter and vocalist who significantly shaped the band’s sound and success. Split Enz achieved considerable fame in New Zealand, Australia, and even in Canada, becoming a staple on the airwaves.
Split Enz eventually disbanded in 1984, but their musical journey didn’t end there. Neil Finn, in 1985, went on to form Crowded House, a band that continues to resonate with audiences today and now includes his sons, Liam and Elroy. Neil has also enjoyed a successful solo career and even stepped in to fill Lindsey Buckingham’s shoes in Fleetwood Mac, showcasing his versatility and enduring talent.
Interestingly, during the initial lockdown in March 2020, Neil Finn started broadcasting live shows from his home studio via Fangradio.com. I stumbled upon this while browsing the website of KEXP Seattle, an American radio station I often frequent online. These intimate performances became a daily ritual until May 2020, then transitioned to a less frequent schedule, culminating in a special Christmas broadcast. Reflecting on those early lockdown shows, the atmosphere of uncertainty and global shift feels palpable even now. The world felt surreal, confined to our homes, venturing out only for essentials, as economies rapidly shifted to online platforms and contactless interactions. Nearly two years later, the world remains in a state of flux, arguably more politically and socially fragmented than ever before.
Against this backdrop of global unease, “Message to My Girl” emerges as a beacon of optimism. The song explores a common theme in music: the hesitation and vulnerability associated with falling in love. Yet, as is typical in such narratives, the singer ultimately embraces the possibility of love, choosing to open himself to the transformative power of a deep, romantic connection. Anecdotal accounts suggest Finn dedicated this song to his wife, Sharon, during a 2006 performance, adding a layer of personal significance to the track.
While the song, its music video, and the band’s fashion aesthetics are undeniably rooted in the 1980s, and the term “girl” in the title might raise eyebrows in today’s context of gender equality, it’s important to consider the era in which it was written. In the 80s, “girl” was still commonly used to refer to adult women, and within the song, it feels intended as a term of endearment, bridging historical usage with affectionate intent. However, in contemporary society, with its heightened awareness of gender equity, we are generally better off moving away from terms that can be perceived as diminishing.
The official music video for “Message to My Girl” is visually intriguing. It opens with what appears to be a cityscape, which is then revealed to be a large photograph being manipulated by stagehands in a backstage or warehouse setting. The video subtly suggests that the images we present to the world are often carefully constructed facades, not necessarily reflections of our authentic selves. In the song itself, Finn seems to reject these pretenses, advocating for vulnerability and genuine emotional connection as the path to true happiness in love.
The lyrics themselves are both honest and poignant:
“I don’t want to say, ‘I love you’
That would give away too much
It’s hip to be detached and precious
The only thing you feel is viciousI don’t want to say, ‘I want you’
Even though I want you so much
It’s wrapped up in conversation
It’s whispered in a hushThough I’m frightened by the words
Think it’s time that it was heardNo more empty self-possession
Visions swept under the mat
It’s no New Year’s resolution
It’s more than thatNow, I wake up happy
Warm in a lover’s embrace
No one else can touch us
While we’re in this placeSo I’ll sing it to the world
This simple message to my girlNo more empty self-possession
Visions swept under the mat
It’s no New Year’s resolution
It’s more than thatThough I’m frightened by the words
Think it’s time I made it heard
So I’ll sing it to the world
A simple message to my girlNo more empty self-possession
Visions swept under the mat
It’s no New Year’s resolution
It’s more than thatOh, there’s nothing quite as real
As the touch of your sweet hand
I can’t spend the rest of my life
Buried in the sand”
These lyrics, penned by Neil Finn, capture the internal conflict between the desire for love and the fear of vulnerability with raw sincerity.
Musically, “Message to My Girl” is rich with subtle details that enhance its emotional impact. The unexpected shifts in time signature, expertly navigated by the electric piano, and the delicate snare drum fills leading into the chorus, are just some of the sonic nuances that make this song so memorable. It’s remarkable how specific sounds can trigger such vivid memories and emotions, and this song, for me, evokes feelings of gratitude for love and companionship in my own life.
“Message to My Girl” is featured on Split Enz’s eighth studio album, Conflicting Emotions (1983). It was also released as a single in early 1984, further solidifying its place in the musical landscape of the decade.
This rediscovery of “Message to My Girl” has been a delightful reminder of the power of music to transport us back in time and evoke profound emotions. It’s a testament to the enduring quality of well-crafted songs that continue to resonate across generations. Take a moment to revisit or discover this classic “My Girl Song” and experience its timeless charm for yourself.
Enjoy the music!
With best wishes,
Steve
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