“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Invitation” is a track by the iconic British rock band Status Quo. Released on their seventeenth studio album “In the Army Now,” the song is part of a collection that marked a significant era for the band, showcasing their ability to adapt and evolve with the times. Known for their boogie rock sound, Status Quo ventured into a more polished and pop-oriented style with this album, reflecting the musical trends of the mid-1980s. “Invitation,” along with other tracks from the album, illustrates the band’s exploration of new musical territories while maintaining the energetic style that had earned them a dedicated fanbase.
About The Composition
- Title: Invitation
- Album/Opus/Collection: In the Army Now
- Genre: Rock
Background
Status Quo’s album “In the Army Now” was released in 1986 and represented a departure from their traditional boogie rock sound. The album was a commercial success, reaching number 7 on the UK Albums Chart. This period in the band’s career was marked by a desire to explore new musical directions and reach a broader audience. The title track, “In the Army Now,” became one of their biggest hits, propelling the album to international success. The band, consisting of Francis Rossi, Rick Parfitt, Alan Lancaster, and John Coghlan at the time, was known for their relentless touring schedule and dedication to live performances.
Musical Style
“Invitation,” like many tracks on “In the Army Now,” features a polished production style with catchy melodies and radio-friendly hooks. The song incorporates elements of pop rock and synthesizers, which were prevalent in the music of the 1980s. The band’s characteristic guitar-driven sound is still present, providing a familiar foundation for the new sonic elements they explored during this era.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrical themes of “Invitation” are not explicitly detailed, as the song is primarily instrumental in nature. Status Quo’s music often focuses on themes of everyday life, relationships, and personal experiences, which may be reflected in the instrumental mood and tone of the track.
Performance History
While “Invitation” itself may not have been a staple in Status Quo’s live performances, the album “In the Army Now” was supported by extensive touring. The band was known for their energetic live shows, and tracks from the album were likely included in their setlists during the late 1980s, contributing to the album’s overall success.
Cultural Impact
The album “In the Army Now” and its tracks, including “Invitation,” contributed to Status Quo’s enduring legacy in the rock music scene. The album’s success helped solidify the band’s reputation as one of Britain’s most beloved rock acts, and its influence can be seen in the continued popularity of their music in various media and cover versions by other artists.
Legacy
Today, Status Quo is celebrated for their contributions to rock music, with “In the Army Now” being a significant part of their discography. The album’s exploration of new musical styles has been recognized as a bold move that paid off, allowing the band to reach new audiences while staying true to their roots. “Invitation,” as part of this album, remains a testament to their versatility and willingness to innovate.
Conclusion
“Invitation” by Status Quo is a fascinating piece of the band’s extensive catalog, showcasing their ability to adapt and thrive in the ever-changing music industry. I encourage you to explore the album “In the Army Now” to appreciate the full scope of Status Quo’s musical journey and their impact on rock music history.
Video
Lyrics
I got an invitation from a girl I used to know back home
It was an invitation asking me to telephone
She said, it’s getting lonely here
And I’ve been gone for close a year
I took the first flight out to meet the girl I used to know back home
She met me off the flight, a million dollars in her long red gown
With a man in a black hat just to drive us back to town
Now the faces all look the same
And all the places have the same old names
But in a year you’ve changed just like the girl I used to know back home
Yes, in a year you’ve changed just like the girl I used to know back home
Maybe it’s true that I go on and on and on
Maybe it’s true that I’m the lonely one alone
What can I say to you, what can I say to you?
Yes, in a year you’ve changed just like the girl I used to know back home
It took another year before I started getting itchy toes
And then I had to leave, but that’s the way the story goes
Well I reckon if she’d made me stay
I’d never live to see another day
I took the first flight out and left the girl I used to know back home
Maybe it’s true that I go on and on and on
Maybe it’s true that I’m the lonely one alone
What can I say to you, what can I say to you?
I took the first flight out and left the girl I used to know back home
Back home, I left the girl back home
I left the girl back home
I left the girl back home