The Meaning Behind The Song: Back For Good by Take That
Take That, the popular English boy band that formed in 1990, released their third single “Back For Good” in 1995. The song is considered one of their greatest hits, dominating the UK charts, and becoming a popular tune worldwide. The song has a universal appeal, and it not only resonates with those who have been in a failed relationship but also with those who have yearned and found love once again.
The lead singer, Gary Barlow, wrote “Back For Good,” and the band released it as a single from their third studio album Nobody Else. The song features as a soft rock ballad with a melodic guitar solo. Let’s take a closer look at the meaning behind the song.
The Inspiration
When asked about the inspiration behind “Back For Good,” Gary Barlow said that he wrote the song about his then-girlfriend, Dawn Andrews. He admitted that he had been a difficult person to be around, and he felt sorry for the way he had treated her. He also revealed that the song was an attempt to get her back.
The Lyrics
The lyrics of “Back For Good” are simple, direct, and memorable. The song talks about a relationship that has ended, but the protagonist still has feelings for his partner and wishes to get back together. The song is not about blaming anyone for the failed relationship, it’s more about accepting that both parties made mistakes and would like to try again.
The opening line of the song is, “I guess now it’s time for me to give up. I feel it’s time” which suggests that the protagonist understands that the relationship is not coming back together on its own and that they need to take action. The chorus, which is the most famous and memorable part of the song, goes:
“But I want you back for good
Want you back, want you back
Want you back for good”
The chorus repeats the line “want you back” three times, emphasizing the protagonist’s desire to reconcile.
The Music Video
The music video for “Back For Good” features Take That performing the song while walking around a lighthouse. The video was directed by Vaughan Arnell and filmed in Sydmonton Court in Hampshire. The band members are dressed in brown leather jackets, jeans, and sneakers, creating a laid-back and approachable look.
The Commercial Success
“Back For Good” was a commercial success for Take That, cementing their status as one of the most successful English boy bands of all time. In the UK, the song peaked at number one in the charts and stayed there for four weeks. The song also charted in many other countries, including the US, where it peaked at number seven in the Billboard Hot 100.
The Legacy
“Back For Good” is considered a classic love song that has stood the test of time. It has been covered by various artists, including Boyz II Men, The Saturdays, and Elton John. The song has been used in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, further cementing its legacy in popular culture.
FAQs
1. Did “Back For Good” win any awards?
Yes, “Back For Good” won the Ivor Novello Award for Best Song Musically and Lyrically in 1996.
2. Was “Back For Good” a number one hit worldwide?
While the song reached number one in the UK, it did not reach the top spot in any other countries. However, it did chart in many other countries, including the US, where it peaked at number seven on the Billboard Hot 100.
3. How long did it take Gary Barlow to write “Back For Good”?
Gary Barlow revealed that it took him about 15 minutes to write the song. He said that it was one of the fastest songs he had ever written.
4. Why is “Back For Good” considered a classic love song?
“Back For Good” is considered a classic love song because of its universal themes of regret, forgiveness, and the hope of rekindling a relationship. The song is relatable and memorable, making it an enduring classic.
5. How did the release of “Back For Good” impact Take That’s career?
The release of “Back For Good” cemented Take That’s status as one of the most successful English boy bands of all time. The song’s commercial success helped to elevate the band’s career, making them an internationally recognized act.
6. What was the inspiration behind the music video for “Back For Good”?
The inspiration behind the music video for “Back For Good” was to create a relaxed and approachable look for the band members. The video features the band members dressed in brown leather jackets, jeans, and sneakers, walking around a lighthouse.
7. How many times does the word “want” appear in the chorus of “Back For Good”?
The word “want” appears three times in the chorus of the song, emphasizing the protagonist’s desire to reconcile with his partner.
8. Was “Back For Good” covered by other artists?
Yes, “Back For Good” has been covered by various artists, including Boyz II Men, The Saturdays, and Elton John.
9. What is the significance of the guitar solo in “Back For Good”?
The guitar solo in “Back For Good” adds a melodic touch to the song, making it more memorable. The solo is simple, direct, and catchy, complementing the song’s theme of regret, forgiveness, and the hope of rekindling a relationship.
10. What is the meaning of the line “I guess now it’s time for me to give up” in “Back For Good”?
The line “I guess now it’s time for me to give up” suggests that the protagonist understands that the relationship is not coming back together on its own and that they need to take action.
11. What is the Ivor Novello Award?
The Ivor Novello Awards, named after the Welsh composer, are one of the most prestigious music awards in the UK. The awards recognize excellence in songwriting and music composition.
12. Did “Back For Good” chart in any other countries besides the US and the UK?
Yes, “Back For Good” charted in many other countries, including Canada, Australia, Germany, and France.
