“The Loved One” by The Loved Ones

“The Loved One” can very much be deemed a 1960s’ love song, except for a few striking lyrics here and there which, may we say, put it ahead of its time. For instance, in the first verse the titular subject, i.e. the apple of the vocalist’s eye, is depicted as being “wanting”. And later on, she is also described as an “evil child”, which can be considered an orthodox designation for a romantic interest even now amongst 21st century musicians.

You can view the lyrics, alternate interprations and sheet music for The Loved Ones's The Loved One at Lyrics.org.

Going a bit out on a limb, what it seems the singer is trying to get at is himself and this lady being in a romantic relationship alright – complete with sex. Or explained otherwise, the 1960s was an era where even pop musicians were not empowered to openly talk about sex, especially of the non-marital variety. 

And it definitely doesn’t read as if this song is based on the romance between a married couple. Instead, taken comprehensively, the lyrics imply that the lady at hand is a hot girl and one whom the vocalist is smitten with via their bonking. For instance, she comes around whenever she ‘wants him again’. But that is not to say that the main issue at hand is sexual. 

Part II

The second half of the song rather reads as if the two of them have developed some type of beef, separated accordingly, and now the vocalist is longing to have her back. So he proceeds to relay that message to his sweetheart, that he ‘needs’ her and “can’t go on” without her.

So this is sort of a dual-subjected track, in a way. On one hand we are met with the reason why the vocalist is smitten, that obviously being his significant other’s hotness. But then the narrative changes direction to rather insinuate that this relationship is currently troubled. But what it all boils down to, in any event, is the fact that he loves her. Or put differently, even if his dependency on the lady is primarily sex-based, it is still very much palpable.

“The Loved One”

Australian rock band, The Loved Ones, released the song, “The Loved One” in May of 1966 as a single from the EP, “The Loved Ones”. The EP is also known by the title, “Blueberry Hill”. The song was also featured on the band’s only studio album, “Magic Box”.

“Magic Box” was recorded at Armstrong Studios, located in the Australian city of Melbourne. The album was released through Australian record label, W&G Records.

This is one of the albums listed in the famous 2010 book, “100 Best Australian Albums”.

“The Love One” was penned by these members of the band:

  • Ian Clyne
  • Rob Lovett
  • Gerry Humphrys

Covers

A notable remake of the song was released as a single in Australia in 1981 by Australian rock band, INXS. The band recorded another version of the song which was featured on their 6th studio album, “Kick”. The said album was released on October 12 of 1987.

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