The Meaning Behind The Song: Next by The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
The Sensational Alex Harvey Band was a Scottish rock band that formed in 1972 and gained popularity in the UK in the 1970s with their theatrical performances and unique sound. Their song “Next” is one of their most popular and enduring songs, and it is still played on classic rock radio stations to this day. In this article, we will explore the meaning behind the song “Next” and its enduring appeal.
History and Background
“Next” was written by Alex Harvey and Hugh McKenna, both members of The Sensational Alex Harvey Band. The song was released in 1973 on their album “Tomorrow Belongs to Me.” The album received critical acclaim and helped establish the band as one of the most innovative and exciting acts of the 1970s.
The song “Next” was one of the standout tracks on the album and quickly became a fan favorite. It features Harvey’s unique vocals and McKenna’s powerful keyboard work, along with the band’s signature sound.
The Lyrics
The lyrics of “Next” are enigmatic and open to interpretation. The song tells the story of a man who is in love with a woman who is unattainable. He sings about his desire for her and his frustration that he cannot have her. The chorus of the song repeats the phrase “next” over and over again.
Some interpret the song to be about the futility of desire and the inevitability of change. Others see the song as a commentary on the politics and culture of the time, with the repeated phrase “next” reflecting the uncertainty and chaos of the era. Whatever the interpretation, the song has a haunting quality that continues to resonate with listeners today.
The Music
The music of “Next” is as enigmatic as the lyrics, blending elements of rock, jazz, and cabaret. The song begins with a moody piano intro before building to a crescendo of drums, guitar, and saxophone. The song’s unusual structure and shifting rhythms add to its dreamlike quality, creating a sense of unease for the listener.
The vocal performance by Alex Harvey is one of the most distinctive aspects of the song. He imbues the lyrics with a sense of longing and passion, while also conveying a sense of detachment and resignation.
The Legacy
“Next” has become a classic rock standard and is still played on radio stations around the world. The song has been covered by several artists, including The Sisters of Mercy and The Fall. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the band’s unique vision and the power of their music.
FAQs
1. What does the phrase “next” mean in the song?
The phrase “next” is repeated throughout the song’s chorus and has been interpreted in many ways. Some see it as a reflection of the uncertainty and chaos of the era, while others interpret it as a commentary on the futility of desire. The meaning of the phrase is left deliberately open-ended, allowing listeners to draw their own conclusions.
2. What inspired the lyrics of “Next”?
The lyrics of “Next” were written by Alex Harvey and Hugh McKenna, and their inspiration is unclear. It is possible that the song is autobiographical, reflecting Harvey’s own experiences with unrequited love. However, the lyrics are enigmatic and could be interpreted in many different ways.
3. What is the significance of the song’s unusual structure?
The song’s unusual structure, with its shifting rhythms and moody piano intro, adds to its dreamlike quality and creates a sense of unease for the listener. The band’s use of unconventional musical techniques was a hallmark of their sound and helped establish them as one of the most innovative acts of the 1970s.
4. How did the song contribute to the band’s success?
“Next” was one of the standout tracks on the band’s album “Tomorrow Belongs to Me,” which received critical acclaim and helped establish them as one of the most exciting and innovative acts of the 1970s. The song’s enduring popularity has contributed to the band’s legacy as one of the most unique and influential rock bands of the era.
5. What is the meaning behind the song’s haunting quality?
The song’s haunting quality is created by its unusual structure, shifting rhythms, and enigmatic lyrics. The band’s use of unconventional musical techniques, such as the moody piano intro, also adds to the song’s ethereal quality. This haunting quality has helped the song endure as a classic rock standard.
6. What other songs are similar to “Next”?
“Next” is a unique song that defies easy comparison. However, it shares some similarities with other experimental rock songs of the era, such as Pink Floyd’s “Echoes” and Captain Beefheart’s “Safe as Milk.” The song’s unusual structure and enigmatic lyrics are hallmarks of the art rock genre.
7. What impact did The Sensational Alex Harvey Band have on music?
The Sensational Alex Harvey Band was one of the most innovative and influential rock bands of the 1970s. Their use of unconventional musical techniques and theatrical performances helped pave the way for the punk and new wave movements that followed. Their music continues to inspire new generations of artists.
8. What other songs are The Sensational Alex Harvey Band known for?
The Sensational Alex Harvey Band had several other popular songs, including “Vambo Marble Eye,” “Faith Healer,” and “The Boston Tea Party.” The band’s theatrical performances and innovative sound made them a favorite among audiences and critics alike.
9. What was the inspiration behind the band’s unique sound?
The band’s unique sound was inspired by a variety of musical influences, including rock, jazz, and cabaret. Their unconventional approach to songwriting and performance helped establish them as one of the most innovative acts of the era. Their music continues to inspire new generations of artists.
10. What is the significance of Alex Harvey’s vocal performance on “Next”?
Alex Harvey’s vocal performance on “Next” is one of the most distinctive aspects of the song. He imbues the lyrics with a sense of longing and passion, while also conveying a sense of detachment and resignation. His unique vocal style helped establish him as one of the most captivating frontmen of the era.
