![The Hollies – Listen To Me – Vinyl (7"), 1968 [r5139481] | Discogs](https://i.discogs.com/YxBqXwNcbkp7xe5xSo4uXSfR_hfOsEBz8MZlzXJYokg/rs:fit/g:sm/q:40/h:300/w:300/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTUxMzk0/ODEtMTQ1NDQ5NDI4/Ny05NjAyLmpwZWc.jpeg)
About the song
“Listen to Me” by The Hollies is a beautifully crafted pop song that highlights the group’s signature harmonies and sophisticated musicality. Released as a single in September 1968, the track marked an important transitional period for the band, as they moved toward a more refined and mature sound. It is a poignant example of the late 1960s British pop scene, where melodic complexity and heartfelt lyrics reigned supreme.
Written by Tony Hazzard, a prolific songwriter of the era, “Listen to Me” captures a blend of romantic introspection and earnest pleading. The song’s lyrics explore themes of love, understanding, and emotional vulnerability. Delivered with the Hollies’ trademark harmonies, the track feels both personal and universal, making it relatable to listeners across generations. The central message is a heartfelt request for connection and attentiveness in relationships—a timeless sentiment that continues to resonate.
Musically, “Listen to Me” showcases the band’s ability to merge contemporary pop sensibilities with intricate vocal arrangements. The song opens with a gentle guitar riff that sets a reflective tone, followed by Allan Clarke’s emotive lead vocals. The lush harmonies provided by Graham Nash and Tony Hicks create a layered texture, enhancing the emotional depth of the song. The melody flows effortlessly, balancing sweetness with a touch of melancholy, a hallmark of many Hollies tracks during this period.
“Listen to Me” was released as a stand-alone single and not initially included on any studio album, though it later appeared on various compilations. Its chart performance was respectable, reaching #11 on the UK Singles Chart, solidifying the Hollies’ position as one of the era’s most consistently successful bands. However, the song is often regarded as somewhat underrated compared to the group’s larger hits like “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” and “The Air That I Breathe”.
The song’s release coincided with a pivotal moment in the band’s history, as Graham Nash was preparing to leave the group to form Crosby, Stills & Nash. In this context, “Listen to Me” can also be seen as emblematic of the changes the band was undergoing, both musically and personally. It is a poignant farewell to the classic Hollies lineup, capturing a sense of nostalgia and transition.
In a broader cultural sense, “Listen to Me” reflects the late 1960s emphasis on introspection and emotional authenticity in music. The track’s plea for understanding and connection aligns with the era’s focus on human relationships and self-expression, themes that were central to the countercultural movement.
Decades later, “Listen to Me” remains a shining example of The Hollies’ craftsmanship and their ability to create music that is both accessible and deeply moving. It continues to be appreciated by fans and newcomers alike, serving as a reminder of the enduring power of thoughtful songwriting and harmonious collaboration.
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Lyrics
Listen to me, I’ll sing a song to change your mindHave you ever wondered whyWhen everything goes wrongNobody stops to lend a handNobody seems to care?When she looks you in the eyeAnd suddenly you’re strongAnd very soon, you realizeThat you didn’t care about loveListen to me, I’ll sing a song to change your mindYour ears are deafYour mouth is dumbYour eyes are blindListen to me, and very soon, I think you’ll findSomebody wants to help youSomebody seems to careAnd very soon you’ve forgottenThat you didn’t care about loveDoes it hurt to realizeYou’ve been acting very strange?Refusing to take the love she givesPretending you don’t careDid it take you by surpriseTo discover how you’d changed?How you forgot to rememberThat you didn’t care about loveListen to me, I’ll sing a song to change your mindYour ears are deafYour mouth is dumbYour eyes are blindListen to me, and very soon, I think you’ll findSomebody wants to help youSomebody seems to careAnd very soon you’ve forgottenThat you didn’t care about loveListen to me, I’ll sing a song to change your mindYour ears are deafYour mouth is dumbYour eyes are blindListen to me, and very soon, I think you’ll findSomebody wants to help youSomebody seems to careAnd very soon you’ve forgottenThat you didn’t care about loveYou didn’t care about loveYou didn’t care aboutYou didn’t care aboutYou didn’t care aboutLove