Paul Young – Everytime You Go Away

The addressee of Paul Young’s “Everytime You Go Away” would logically be a romantic interest of the narrator, considering he refers to this individual as “baby” and all. And the way the situation reads is sort of like she is a part-time lover. For instance, he states that she ‘goes when the leading man appears’. This may be implying that she has another boyfriend, one whom she holds in higher regard than the singer. Also the first verse seems to indicate that the narrator’s relationship with this lady has its fair share of other problems.

So basically, the primary sentiment being expressed is his dissatisfaction with this realty. Or as effectively stated throughout the song, when she does “go away” he is cast into emotional turmoil. And again, she would be compelled to separate herself from him apparently in the name of seeing another lover and also as a relief from their less-than-ideal union.

In fact in the second verse he tells her to “go on and go free”, as he seems to realize that their romance is perhaps having toxic effects on the both of them. And as such she needs to be afforded a higher degree of independence. But he is making such a statement half-heartedly. And why? Because at the end of the day, if nothing else, it is clear that he suffers when she is not around.

Conclusion

So conclusively, even though the singer is wailing throughout the entirety of “Everytime You Go Away”, this track can perhaps be best classified as a love song. That is to say that it is clear he loves his romantic partner. But all things considered, he may also be the victim of an unrequited love. And we can make this assumption in acknowledging that most of the lyrics of this track are dedicated to his perpetual discontent with his lover’s lack of a constant presence in his life.

Facts about “Everytime You Go Away”

This song was written by Daryl Hall, of Hall & Oates’ fame. In fact Hall & Oates were the first artists to record “Everytime You Go Away”, as it was featured on their 1980 album “Voices”. Their version was never released as a single though.

Paul Young’s rendition was released by Columbia Records on 25 February 1985. Actually it was the lead single from his sophomore album, “The Secret of Association”. And the track was a big success, in fact becoming the signature song of his career.

Paul Young’s version topped the renowned Hot 100 and US Cashbox Top 100. It also reached number in the main music chart in Canada (i.e. RPM Top Singles).

Furthermore, it charted in seven other countries, including peaking at number four in Britain.

Seasoned director Nick Morris was employed as the director for the music video to “Everytime You Go Away”. And the track was produced by Laurie Latham.

It has been noted that the titular spelling of “everytime” is not an actual word in the official English lexicon. It is supposed to be spelled “Every Time” instead of “Everytime”.

3 Responses

  1. James says:

    Im probably not alone in noting., this was one of those songs that became “our song” Now though I can make out those somewhat puzzling lyrics meaning. about a love triangle, not just about physical seperation.

  2. Joey C says:

    I can’t believe my cousin wanted me to sing this song at her wedding. I didn’t sing – because I’m a terrible singer but now I wonder why would this be a song to sing at a wedding?

  3. Anonymous says:

    Her “leaving” IMO is a metaphor. It could mean cause she’s cheating, an addict, or broken in another way that causes her to check out. Regardless, he’s left emotionally abandoned every time. It feels like a mantra one sings in order to reconcile letting go of someone you live but for whatever reason can’t love you back the way you deserve and love them. Tragic love song for sure.

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