Songs That Inspired That Love Podcast: The Whole of the Moon by The Waterboys

"The Whole of the Moon" - An Iconic Song from The Waterboys

"The Whole of the Moon" is a song by Scottish-Irish rock band The Waterboys. It was released in 1985 and quickly became a hit, reaching the top 30 in the UK and the top 10 in Ireland. The song has since become a classic, and it is widely regarded as one of the greatest songs of the 1980s.

The song is notable for its soaring melody, memorable lyrics, and grandiose arrangement. The lyrics describe a person who has achieved great things and seen the world, but still feels a sense of longing for something more. The chorus of the song, with its memorable hook of "I saw the crescent / You saw the whole of the moon," has become one of the most recognizable and beloved in all of popular music.

The song was written by The Waterboys' lead singer and songwriter, Mike Scott. Scott has said that the song was inspired by a conversation he had with a friend who had just returned from a trip to New York. The friend described the city as "like a huge Hollywood movie set," and Scott was struck by the idea of someone who could see the whole world but still feel unsatisfied.

The song's arrangement is notable for its use of piano, organ, and strings, as well as a powerful drumbeat. The instrumentation builds to a climax in the chorus, with Scott's vocals soaring over the top of the music. The production gives the song a grandiose feel, which matches the scope of the lyrics.

"The Whole of the Moon" has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Ellie Goulding, Mandy Moore, and Jennifer Warnes. The song has also been used in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, cementing its place in popular culture.

In conclusion, "The Whole of the Moon" is a classic song that has stood the test of time. Its memorable lyrics, soaring melody, and grandiose arrangement have made it a beloved favorite of music fans around the world. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to the power of great songwriting and musical production, and it will continue to inspire and move listeners for years to come.