The Dave Clark Five – Inside and Out

About the song

Released in 1965, “Inside and Out” by The Dave Clark Five is one of the standout tracks from the British band’s remarkable catalog. This song was part of their album “Having a Wild Weekend”, which was released in conjunction with the movie of the same name. Known for their energetic style and influence on the British Invasion movement, The Dave Clark Five had already garnered considerable attention with hits like “Glad All Over” and “Bits and Pieces,” and “Inside and Out” continued their streak of vibrant and catchy pop-rock anthems.

What sets “Inside and Out” apart from many other songs of its era is its distinctive mixture of upbeat rhythm, catchy chorus, and the engaging storytelling element. The song is marked by its infectious energy, with a rhythmic drive led by the pulsating beat of the drums, which were a signature feature of The Dave Clark Five‘s sound. This energetic and straightforward musical arrangement combined with its bold lyrics about love, confusion, and emotional introspection, helped establish the song as one of the band’s memorable tracks.

The song’s lyrics, although simple, explore the theme of internal conflict and the vulnerability of being in a relationship. The title “Inside and Out” reflects the deep emotional state conveyed throughout the song. The protagonist seems torn between his love for someone and the confusion that this love causes him, emphasizing the duality of feelings that can exist in romantic relationships. This raw emotional exploration of love, something that wasn’t often highlighted so explicitly in pop music at the time, added a layer of depth to the track that resonated with listeners.

While “Inside and Out” may not have reached the monumental commercial success of some of their other hits, it has gained a devoted following over the years. The song exemplifies the spirit of the 1960s British pop scene — lively, infectious, and always exploring new emotional territories. The Dave Clark Five were not just another pop band; they played an instrumental role in the crossover between the British and American music scenes. Their music was a defining influence on pop-rock’s evolution during the mid-60s, and “Inside and Out” remains an example of their ability to capture both the exuberance and complexity of youth.

Socially, this song, like many of The Dave Clark Five’s tracks, echoed the sentiments of a generation navigating new cultural and emotional territories in the wake of the 1960s’ social revolution. It embodies the emotional openness and honesty that were becoming more prevalent in popular music at the time, as artists sought to connect with their audiences on a deeper, more personal level.

In conclusion, “Inside and Out” by The Dave Clark Five is a great example of the band’s ability to craft infectious pop tunes with a heartfelt emotional core. Its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, combined with the complexity of its lyrics, make it a timeless track that reflects the band’s enduring legacy in shaping the soundscape of 1960s rock and pop music.

Video

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Two little villages on their own
Each lord takin’ care of his own
One with a son that never looks happy
The other with a daughter that dresses so snappy

[Pre-Chorus]
They love each other, and they’re tryin’ to get together
But the feud between the families isn’t gettin’ any better

[Chorus]
Inside and out
Tell you what it’s all about
It’s inside and out
Tell you what it’s all about

[Verse 2]
There’s only one thing for them to try
To lay their bodies down and die
This they do when the families see
They’ve been fightin’ so foolishly

[Pre-Chorus]
You’re listenin’ to a true account
Of what this story’s all about

[Chorus]
It’s inside and out
Tell you what it’s all about
It’s inside and out
Tell you what it’s all about

[Bridge]
Try as they may they just don’t understand
What their children are doin’
Or what they stand for today
Try as they may

[Verse 3]
Now, you know what it’s all about
Take a look inside and out
A very sad song with a tale of woe
I take my leave, I have to go

[Pre-Chorus]
Look very deep and look very long
To find the moral of this song

[Chorus]
It’s inside and out
Tell you what it’s all about
It’s inside and out
Tell you what it’s all about

[Chorus]
It’s inside and out
Tell you what it’s all about
It’s inside and out
Tell you what it’s all about