About the song
“Go All the Way,” performed by the Raspberries on the Mike Douglas Show in 1974, offers a fascinating glimpse into the vibrant energy and dynamic presence of one of the quintessential power pop bands of the early 1970s. This live television performance captures the essence of the Raspberries at the height of their popularity and showcases their infectious enthusiasm and musical prowess.
The Raspberries, fronted by the charismatic Eric Carmen, were known for their blend of melodic pop and rock influences, drawing heavily from the sounds of the British Invasion. Formed in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1970, the band also featured guitarist Wally Bryson, bassist David Smalley, and drummer Jim Bonfanti. Their debut album, *Raspberries* (1972), included the hit single “Go All the Way,” which quickly became a defining track for the group. The song’s catchy guitar riffs and upbeat energy helped it climb to No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying their place in the music scene.
The Mike Douglas Show, a popular daytime talk show that aired from 1961 to 1981, was known for featuring a mix of celebrity interviews and musical performances. The appearance by the Raspberries in 1974 was a significant moment, showcasing their live performance abilities and the exuberance of their hit single. On this platform, the band delivered a spirited rendition of “Go All the Way,” which highlighted their engaging stage presence and the song’s infectious energy.
The live performance of “Go All the Way” on the Mike Douglas Show is notable not only for its representation of the Raspberries’ musical style but also for its reflection of the era’s pop-rock landscape. The performance captures the essence of the power pop genre, with its straightforward rock sensibilities and catchy melodies. The band’s energetic delivery and charismatic performance make this appearance a memorable part of their legacy.
In summary, the Raspberries’ 1974 performance of “Go All the Way” on the Mike Douglas Show is a significant moment in the band’s history. It exemplifies their dynamic live presence and the appeal of their hit single, showcasing the vibrant and engaging nature of early 1970s power pop. This television appearance remains a testament to the Raspberries’ enduring impact and their ability to captivate audiences both in the studio and on stage.
Video
Lyrics
All right
I never, never knew how complete love could be
Till she kissed me and said
“Baby, please, go all the way
It feels so right (feels so right)
Being with you here tonight”
“Please, go all the way
Just hold me close (hold me close)
Don’t ever let me go (don’t let me go)”
I coudn’t say what I wanted to say
Till she whispered, “I love you so”
“Please, go all the way
It feels so right (feels so right)
Being with you here tonight”
“Please, go all the way
Just hold me close (hold me close)
Don’t ever let me go (don’t let me go)”
Before her love I was cruel and mean
Had a hole in the place where my heart should have been
But now I’m changed and I feel so strange
I come alive when she does all those things to me
And she says
“Come on (come on)
Come on (come on)
Come on (come on, come on)
I need you (come on)
I love you (come on)
I need you (come on)
Come on”
“Please, go all the way (baby, go all the way)
It feels so right (feels so right)
Being with you here tonight”
“Please, go all the way (baby, go all the way)
Just hold me close (hold me close)
Don’t ever let me go (don’t let me go)
Go all the way, yeah!