Written by: Albert Hammond & Mike Hazelwood
Released: 1974
US Charts: #6
UK Charts: #2
Other Charts: #2 (Australia), #4 (Germany), #5 (Canada)
Not the original version of the song, nevertheless, the Hollies’ version is by far the best and most well-known version of this classic tune. Their vocal harmony was perfect for this song. Not to mention, the opening guitar riff, which is possibly one of the best guitar riffs ever made, and which sets the tune for the rest of the song.
My first impression was in fact an incorrect one. I initially thought that it was largely positive and happy song about someone stating that the only thing that they need to be fulfilled in their life is their partner and the air around them. However, after reading the lyrics and watching the video, I realised that I was completely off the mark.
The video itself, is very eerie and disturbing, and portrays the story of a lover contemplating suicide because his partner has left him for another man. The song’s lyrics are then interpreted as someone being desperate to have their partner back and the air they breathe in order to simply survive. This negative feel to the song shocked me a bit, but I’ve since grown to love the song simply because of that.
The song came to be the Hollies’ last major hit, and despite rocking on until today, they have not been able to return to their glory days of the 60s and 70s. This is also one of their best songs, probably just behind “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother.”
I hope you all enjoy the song, and are able to get a feel for the wonderful tune and meaning that this song conveys.
Lyrics can be accessed here.
Chords can be accessed here.
Feel free to comment on this song and/or my review below.
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