.

Song Stories

“World Without Love”

Peter and Gordon | 1964

Contrary to its lyrics of utter despondency wishing to block out the world, "World Without Love" featured the melodic, upbeat harmony pop-rock typical of the British Invasion, though an organ took the solo instead of a guitar. This was the most popular song written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney not to have been recorded by the Beatles, topping the U.S. singles chart in 1964. "The funny first line always used to please John," joked McCartney. "'Please lock me away ...' 'Yes, okay.' End of song."

prev
“San Francisco Mabel Joy”
Mickey Newbury | 1969
Song Stories Main Next
“Donna”
Ritchie Valens | 1958

blog comments powered by Disqus

Photos & Videos

Go To Content

Random Notes: Hottest Rock Pictures

Go To Content Play Video

Video: Dave Grohl Sits in With the Rolling Stones

Go To Content

Gallery: Summer Tour Preview 2013

Best Ever Lists
500 Greatest Albums of All Time

Other Lists

Song Stories

“Youth Knows No Pain”

Lykke Li | 2011

“Like on 'Youth Knows No Pain' — we are the ones that should demonstrate, because we can take it,” Likke Li said. “We can pierce ourselves, take Ecstasy, dance all night and still go to work at our McDonald's jobs.” Despite the hedonistic sentiment in the song, the Swedish singer also admitted in hindsight her youth had repercussions. “I remember when I was 18-19 and feeling that I know it all,” Li said. “I always feel that I know it all. But that song is about realizing you don’t, and reflecting, ‘Boy, if I only knew what would follow.’”

More Song Stories entries »