It’s a pleasant afternoon on the porch, bathed in the late summer sun. Feeling healthier and more mobile after a period of illness is truly something to appreciate. This renewed vitality has me looking forward to getting back on my bike for some long rides, once I’m fully back in shape.
This past weekend, however, provided the perfect opportunity to relax and immerse myself in music, particularly through David Marsden LIVE on NYtheSpirit. As always, the playlist was exceptional, and a request from a Moody Blues enthusiast in the chat led to the rediscovery of a gem: “The Other Side of Life.” This track, an excellent example of an Other Side Song, was a welcome surprise.
Released in 1986, “The Other Side of Life” initially flew under my radar. While I was captivated by the new wave and new romance sounds of the early ’80s, my focus shifted towards marriage and career as the decade progressed. Consequently, much music that would typically resonate with me was missed. This Moody Blues song is undoubtedly one of those overlooked treasures.
What a song it is! Critical reviews from the time echo this sentiment. Wikipedia highlights Cashbox magazine’s praise for its “music and poetry” and the “riveting” vocal performance, noting the contribution of “bright synthesizers.” Billboard aptly described it as “a bluesy shuffle with a light, lyrical texture.” Adding to the acclaim, a Daily Oklahoman review interpreted the song’s theme as “‘inspecting the other side of life,’ [and] saying that ‘We never really learn what that means, but, heck, the music is beautiful and Hayward’s voice still sounds like a songbird.'” These reviews capture the essence of this compelling other side song.
The lyrics themselves paint a vivid picture, inviting listeners to explore the unknown:
“The atmosphere on the streets tonight
Is the driving beat of the world
The word down here on the streets tonight
Is the truest music you’ve heardSo take your share of the gifts that are there
They all belong to you
And come what may at the break of each day
We all begin anew once more, we all begin anewBaby, baby, baby, let’s investigate
The other side of life tonight
The lovers and the fighters and the risks they take
Are on the other side of life tonightLet’s lose our way, go completely astray
And find ourselves again
You know the only way to get there is to take that step
To the other side of life tonight”
“The Other Side of Life,” by Justin Hayward. Lyrics retrieved from AZLyrics.
Formed in 1964, The Moody Blues always seemed to represent an earlier generation for me, a band I anticipated appreciating more deeply later in life. Yet, they remained productive through the 1980s, releasing four albums. I recall the buzz around Long Distance Voyager (1981), but the subsequent albums, including the one featuring this other side song, were less prominent in my awareness at the time.
The Moody Blues’ journey began in the British beat and rhythm and blues scene. They evolved into pioneers of psychedelic rock in the ’60s, became known for their orchestral collaborations, and played a significant role in developing art and progressive rock subgenres. After a hiatus from 1974 to 1977, the band continued until 2018, concluding with the retirement of founding member Graeme Edge (1941-2021). Notably, with the recent passing of keyboardist Mike Pender (1941-2024), all original members are now deceased. Wikipedia offers a comprehensive article detailing the band’s rich history and legacy, a resource I recommend for anyone, like myself, wanting to learn more.
In a 2013 UltimateClassicRock interview (recounted by Wikipedia), Justin Hayward (b. 1946), the band’s frontman, lead singer, and songwriter since 1966, shared the song’s inspiration. He explained, “It came about because of where [American record producer Tony Visconti’s] studio was, right in the middle of Soho in London… It’s a part of London and a part of the world that I hadn’t seen since I was 16 or 17 years old… So I wanted to express that in the song and it was a very odd kind of place and an odd sort of atmosphere, where Tony had his little haven of peace and serenity in the middle of this madness in the middle of London. That definitely came through in the song.” This context reveals the urban, slightly edgy backdrop that informs the spirit of this other side song.
Hayward’s songwriting prowess shines in “The Other Side of Life.” It’s an epic track rooted in progressive rock yet accessible enough for 1980s commercial radio. While I might have encountered it back then, a song this well-crafted and enjoyable surely would have left a lasting impression. Its optimistic energy contrasts with the urgency found in another Moody Blues track, “Question,” and Hayward’s vocal performance here is exceptional, complemented by masterful instrumentation and production.
To me, this other side song evokes the anticipation of an exciting night out, perhaps in unfamiliar surroundings. The lyrics urge a companion to embrace adventure and the possibility of revitalizing their relationship. While the official video adopts a more menacing and surreal approach (albeit with a positive resolution), my personal interpretation aligns more with the song’s upbeat mood. It resonates with memories of exploring London evenings with my partner, enjoying life’s adventures together, and taking train trips to vibrant areas like Soho and the West End theatre district. This personal connection makes the song even more meaningful.
“The Other Side of Life” not only served as the title track of their 12th studio album but also as the second single, following “Your Wildest Dreams.” It stands as a testament to the band’s enduring creativity and ability to produce compelling music even in their later periods.
Now you have a glimpse into why “The Other Side of Life” is my Song of the Day. Thank you for joining me in this musical exploration.
Please enjoy the official audio on YouTube’s The Moody Blues channel:
[Link to Audio]
And here is the official video, featuring the shorter edit of the song:
[Link to Video]
Do you feel the video’s atmosphere aligns with the song’s mood? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Warmly,
Steve
Something else I listened to today:
If you’re reading this on my website or in WordPress Reader, you’ll see algorithm-suggested songs below each post. Adding to that mix today is the poignant “Under the Ivy” by Kate Bush.
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