Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Everyday
A new start
A cheap affair
A sordid truth
We'll never learn
To guide our hearts
We'll never find
What we deserve

[Refrain]
She's leaving
She waited for so long

[Verse 2]
She'd pretend
That he cared
Invent some tale
Just to gain his heart
But no more dreams
She didn't dare
She washed her hands
Of this whole affair

[Refrain]
She's leaving
She waited for so long
[Verse 3 / Outro]
But as she left
She gave her heart
Abandoned hope
And turned for home
I thought I'd ask
But then again
The more we learn
The less we knowEmbed

Are you ready to take a nostalgic trip back to the 1980s? Get ready to be immersed in the mesmerizing sounds of synth-pop with Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark's iconic track, "She's Leaving." This timeless song captures the essence of love, loss, and the bittersweet emotions that accompany the end of a relationship. With its infectious melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and signature OMD sound, "She's Leaving" continues to resonate with listeners and transport them back to a time when new wave ruled the airwaves.

About She's Leaving

Released in 1981 as the third single from OMD's critically acclaimed album "Architecture & Morality," "She's Leaving" showcases the band's innovative approach to synth-pop music. Written by band members Andy McCluskey and Paul Humphreys, the song tells the story of a relationship in its final moments. With its hauntingly beautiful melodies and poignant lyrics, "She's Leaving" captures the emotional rollercoaster of love and heartbreak.

One of the notable features of "She's Leaving" is the unique sonic landscape crafted by OMD. The song opens with an atmospheric synth intro, instantly hooking the listener with its ethereal vibe. As the track progresses, the pulsating electronic beats and cascading synth melodies create a sense of tension and anticipation, perfectly complementing the narrative of the lyrics. The combination of McCluskey's emotive vocals and the band's inventive use of synthesizers and drum machines elevates "She's Leaving" to a whole new level of musical excellence.

Lyrically, "She's Leaving" delves deep into the complexities of a failing relationship. McCluskey's heartfelt and introspective words paint a vivid picture of a love on the verge of collapse. The lyrics reflect the painful realization that despite one's best efforts, sometimes a relationship cannot be salvaged. Lines like "Look at the face you know so well / Look at the eyes that watched you grow / Will sacred hearts be bruised and broken?" evoke a sense of vulnerability and longing that instantly resonate with listeners.

What sets "She's Leaving" apart from other breakup songs of its time is its ability to capture both the sadness and the resilience that comes with the end of a relationship. While the lyrics explore the pain of letting go, the music itself provides a glimmer of hope and strength. OMD masterfully blends melancholic melodies with uplifting synth hooks, creating a musical dichotomy that perfectly encapsulates the conflicting emotions experienced during a breakup.

With its captivating sound and introspective lyrics, "She's Leaving" became an instant hit for OMD. The song's commercial success not only solidified OMD's place in the synth-pop genre but also helped shape the musical landscape of the 1980s. Its popularity reached far beyond the initial release, with "She's Leaving" remaining a fan favorite and a staple in OMD's live performances to this day.

Looking back, it is evident that "She's Leaving" is more than just a breakup song. It is a testament to OMD's artistic prowess and ability to create music that is both emotionally resonant and sonically captivating. By combining their unique synth-based sound with poignant lyrics, OMD crafted a masterpiece that continues to stand the test of time.

So, whether you're a longtime fan of Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark or a newcomer to their music, "She's Leaving" is a must-listen. Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing melodies, let the heartfelt lyrics wash over you, and allow this timeless track to transport you back to a time when synth-pop ruled the airwaves.

• Release Date: November 8, 1981
• Artist: Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark