About The Song
"Goodnight Vienna" is a timeless song by John Lennon, released as the title track of his 1974 album. The album marked Lennon's second collaboration with producer Richard Perry and continued the successful streak that began with "Walls and Bridges." The song itself is a lullaby, featuring soothing melodies and gentle lyrics that convey a sense of reassurance and comfort. Lennon's vocals are tender, and the arrangement is a harmonious blend of orchestral elements and rock instrumentation.
The lyrics of "Goodnight Vienna" are a heartfelt expression of love and warmth. Lennon, known for his profound and sometimes politically charged lyrics, takes a departure with this song, opting for a more personal and intimate approach. The chorus repeats the phrase "Goodnight Vienna," creating a sense of a bedtime ritual or a comforting farewell. The verses further elaborate on themes of love, dreams, and the solace that comes with the night. The simplicity of the lyrics adds to the song's charm, making it accessible and relatable to listeners of all ages.
The musical arrangement of "Goodnight Vienna" is a testament to Lennon's ability to experiment with different genres. The song combines elements of rock, pop, and orchestral music seamlessly. The lush orchestration, featuring strings and horns, gives the track a cinematic quality, as if it belongs in a dreamy, nostalgic film. The instrumentation complements the lyrics, enhancing the emotional impact of the song. The gentle piano and acoustic guitar contribute to the lullaby feel, creating a sonic atmosphere that envelops the listener in a sense of tranquility.
"Goodnight Vienna" is not just a standalone song but an integral part of the album that shares its name. The album as a whole showcases Lennon's versatility as a musician and songwriter. From the upbeat rock of "Whatever Gets You Thru the Night" to the soulful balladry of "Goodnight Vienna," Lennon takes listeners on a diverse musical journey. The album also features collaborations with other prominent artists of the time, including Elton John on the hit single "Whatever Gets You Thru the Night." "Goodnight Vienna" stands out as a gem within this collection, embodying the softer side of Lennon's artistry.
In conclusion, "Goodnight Vienna" is a beautiful and tender contribution to John Lennon's body of work. It exemplifies his ability to craft songs that resonate on a personal level while showcasing his musical experimentation. The combination of heartfelt lyrics, soothing melodies, and diverse instrumentation creates a song that transcends time and remains a cherished piece in the musical legacy of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. Whether as a lullaby for a restless night or a soundtrack for moments of reflection, "Goodnight Vienna" continues to captivate audiences with its timeless charm.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
.....Last night, ah-hah-hah,
she was so beautiful, she made me uptight, ah-hah-hah....
-oh gee! I'm worn out! Can we try another, can you hear what he's saying?
I took my baby to a party last night, ah-hah-hah,
she was so beautiful, she made me uptight, ah-hah-hah,
up come a butcher with her ju jus alight, ah-hah-hah,
it's all da-da-da-down to goodnight vienna.
Felt like a bohunk but I kept up my cool, ah-hah-hah,
green as a frog, man, I was back into school, ah-hah-hah,
zipped up my mouth 'cause I was starting to drool, ah-hah-hah,
it's all da-da-da-down to goodnight vienna.
Git it up!
Git it up!
Git it up!
Git it up!
It's all da-da-da-down to goodnight vienna.
She said she loved me but I knew she was lying, ah-hah-hah,
felt like an arab who was dancing through zion, ah-hah-hah,
don't call no doctor when you just feel like crying, ah-hah-hah,
it's all da-da-da-down to goodnight vienna.
Uhuh-
git it up!
Git it up!
Git it up!
Git it up!
I took my baby to a party last night, ah-hah-hah,
she was so beautiful, it made me uptight, ah-hah-hah,
up came a doct.... With his needles in sight, ah-hah-hah,
it's all down to goodnight vienna.