Things were very different back in the early 1970's. Hairstyles were different, girls make-up was different, and the songs were very different; they had 'tunes'.
I had just graduated, bought my first house, had a teaching job, and was thinking about moving to France. Nothing seemed impossible.
This song, and the band, represent the feeling around at that time. The novelty of 'Swinging London' had become normalised, and the new-found liberty was spreading fast.
It was a time when we all felt safe, financially secure, and optimistic. I think this song echoes that feeling.
Not so good though for those of us coming along towards the end of the 1970s, things going distinctly pear shaped....
ReplyDeleteThe only bad thing I can remember about that time was Wilson banning Grammar Schools, but luckily Mrs T was there to sort it out.
DeleteThat’s because you are straight, white and male Cro - and came from a moneyed background. But we all look at things through our own lens
DeleteMaybe, but I knew plenty of people from very poor backgrounds who did very well. Twiggy (Leslie Hornby) is a good example.
DeleteWhite and straight Cro and very lucky.
DeleteI never saw it like that.
DeleteAs I said, we all look at things through our own lens. How could we not? If you were a black woman, who did not have a private education, things would have been very different at that time. For example, had you needed a mortgage to buy that house you wouldn’t have qualified.
DeleteI have never denied that I've been fortunate, but I've done my bit too!
DeleteNot saying that Cro, just trying to point out the fact that, for many, the late 60s were not a nice place.
DeleteWell, I beg to differ. My memories of that ear were fabulous. Everything was possible for everyone.
DeleteIt wasn’t Cro. Do you realize a woman could not get a mortgage without having a man to sign it….seriously.
DeleteI was lucky to be in London in the early 70s. It was fun. It was safe. Terrific music and you could see it played live. Great fashion and hair styles. So I thought back then.
ReplyDeleteThe best of times
I was living in London in the late 60's then went to Art college in '68 (?). They were really great days.
DeleteThe lead singer was called Polly Brown or Browne. She is now 78 years old. That same old feeling she gets now is arthritis.
ReplyDeleteI wonder what happened to her? She probably now dribbles into her Porridge.
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