Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark

Lyrics

3 ContributorsWalking On The Milky Way LyricsWhen I was only seventeen
My head was full of brilliant dreams
My heart would call and I would gladly go
At twenty one the world was mine
And I was yours and you're divine
And nothing else would matter to us so
I don't believe in destiny
I don't believe in love
I don't believe that anything will ever be enough...

Man you should have seen us
On the way to Venus
Walking on the milky way
It was quite a day hey hey...
Walking on the big stuff
Acting like we're real tough
Baby we were on our way
So what do you say hey hey

As time goes by reality
Destroys your hope and dignity
There's nothing left but shadows on the wall
But just remember who you are
And where you've been you've come so far
And never ever let them see you fall
I don't believe in miracles
I don't believe in truth
I don't believe that anything can recreate your youth
You might also likeMan you should have seen us
On the way to Venus
Walking on the milky way
It was quite a day hey hey...
Walking on the big stuff
Acting like we're real tough
Baby we were on our way
So what do you say hey hey

Man you should have seen us
On the way to Venus
Walking on the milky way
It was quite a day hey hey...
Walking on the big stuff
Acting like we're real tough
Baby we were on our way
So what do you say hey hey

Man it's you to seen us this way we runaway with you (x3)Embed

Walking On The Milky Way by Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark is a track that holds a significant place in the band's discography. Released as the penultimate single before their 90s break-up, the song stands as their final top-40 UK single. It's worth noting that the disappointing performance of this track played a role in the band's decision to part ways in 1996. According to bandleader Andy McClusky, the changing musical fashion of the 90s, which rejected the 80s synth style, played a part in this outcome.

The lyrics of Walking On The Milky Way seem to reflect the end of an era, offering listeners a glimpse into the narrator's life and his retrospective reflections. As the verses unfold, there is an aura of wistfulness as the narrator reminisces about their youth. These emotions crescendo into an anthemic chorus that celebrates their achievements, aided by a powerful synth backing that evokes the spirit of the 80s power ballads.

About Walking On The Milky Way

Walking On The Milky Way serves as a fitting swan song for Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark before their temporary disbandment. The track showcases the band's ability to craft catchy pop tunes while seamlessly blending elements of the 80s synthpop sound with a more introspective approach.

Starting with a melancholic tone, the song captures the essence of reminiscing about the past. The verses offer a glimpse into the narrator's journey, painting a nostalgic picture of their youthful days and the experiences they've left behind. The sentimentality of these verses strikes a chord with listeners who may find themselves reflecting on their own lives and the passage of time.

As the song progresses, the energy builds, leading into a chorus that bursts with triumphant synth melodies. This powerful and anthemic section highlights the narrator's achievements, as they metaphorically walk on the Milky Way. The grandness of the chorus not only resonates with fans of Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark but also captures the essence of 80s power ballads that were a prominent feature of the music landscape during that era.

One can't help but notice the contrast between the verses and the chorus of Walking On The Milky Way. This juxtaposition adds depth to the song, mirroring the emotional intricacies that often accompany reflections on the past. It's as if the narrator is acknowledging the ups and downs of life while still finding a sense of satisfaction in their accomplishments.

Notable in Walking On The Milky Way is the band's mastery of synthesizers, which has long been their signature sound. Pioneers of the synthpop genre, Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark skillfully weave together layers of synthesizers, creating a rich and textured musical landscape for the song. This mastery is particularly evident in the chorus, where the synths take center stage, driving the track forward with their captivating melodies.

Walking On The Milky Way represents an interesting point in Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark's career. As their last top-40 UK single before their break-up, the song encapsulates the essence of the band's creativity and ability to adapt. It serves as a testament to their longevity in the ever-evolving music industry, even though it ultimately marked the end of a significant chapter.

Despite the disappointment surrounding the song's performance at the time of its release, Walking On The Milky Way remains a beloved track among fans of Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark. Its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia, combined with its infectious melodies and poignant lyrics, ensures that it continues to resonate with listeners to this day. Whether it's the familiarity of the synthesizers or the universal theme of reflecting on one's life journey, there is something undeniably captivating about this unforgettable track.

Walking On The Milky Way stands as a testament to the impact that Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark has had on the music scene. Through their innovative use of synthesizers and their introspective songwriting, the band has left an indelible mark on the genre. While their break-up may have marked the end of an era, songs like Walking On The Milky Way continue to captivate audiences and remind us of the power of music to evoke emotions and transport us to different times and places.

• Release Date: August 5, 1996
• Artist: Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark