About the song
“Tuesday Afternoon” by The Moody Blues is a song that beautifully encapsulates the band’s signature blend of rock and orchestral music. Originally released on their 1967 album *Days of Future Passed*, this track is a timeless piece of progressive rock history. The album itself is a concept album, known for its innovative fusion of rock and classical music, featuring orchestral interludes composed and conducted by Peter Knight.
The Moody Blues, formed in Birmingham in 1964, are renowned for their pioneering work in progressive rock. The band members during the recording of “Tuesday Afternoon” included Justin Hayward, John Lodge, Graeme Edge, Ray Thomas, and Mike Pinder. Justin Hayward, the song’s composer, provided the lead vocals and played the guitar, delivering a performance that remains a highlight of the band’s extensive catalog.
“Tuesday Afternoon” did not chart as a single initially, but it has since become one of The Moody Blues’ most beloved songs. Its enduring popularity is evident in its frequent inclusion in live performances and compilations. The song’s lush arrangements and reflective lyrics capture the essence of the band’s artistic vision during the late 1960s. The orchestral sections, combined with Hayward’s poignant vocals and the band’s rich harmonies, create a sound that is both expansive and intimate.
The version from the *Threshold of a Dream* DVD captures a live performance that showcases the band’s musical prowess and the enduring appeal of “Tuesday Afternoon.” This live rendition offers fans a chance to experience the song in a new light, with the energy and spontaneity that only a live performance can provide. The DVD, released in 2006, features performances from their 1970 concert at the Royal Albert Hall, presenting a band at the peak of their creative powers.
“Tuesday Afternoon” is part of the suite “The Afternoon,” which also includes “Forever Afternoon (Tuesday?)”. The lyrics of “Tuesday Afternoon” reflect a moment of personal reflection and connection with nature, themes that resonate with many listeners. The song begins with the iconic line, “Tuesday afternoon, I’m just beginning to see, now I’m on my way,” setting the tone for a journey of self-discovery and contemplation.
The Moody Blues’ *Days of Future Passed* album reached number 27 on the Billboard 200 chart and eventually achieved platinum status, solidifying the band’s place in rock history. The album’s success marked a significant milestone for the band, leading to further groundbreaking albums and a lasting influence on the progressive rock genre.
In summary, “Tuesday Afternoon” by The Moody Blues, particularly the live version from the *Threshold of a Dream* DVD, is a testament to the band’s innovative spirit and musical excellence. The song’s rich orchestration, introspective lyrics, and Hayward’s evocative performance continue to captivate audiences, making it a cherished piece in the band’s repertoire. As part of the landmark album *Days of Future Passed*, “Tuesday Afternoon” remains a shining example of The Moody Blues’ ability to blend rock and classical music into a harmonious and enduring work of art.
Video
Lyrics
Tuesday afternoon
I’m just beginning to see
Now I’m on my way
It doesn’t matter to me
Chasing the clouds away
Something calls to me
The trees are drawing me near
I’ve got to find out why
Those gentle voices I hear
Explain it all with a sigh
I’m looking at myself reflections of my mind
It’s just the kind of day to leave myself behind
So gently swaying through the fairyland of love
If you’ll just come with me you’ll see the beauty of
Tuesday afternoon
Tuesday afternoon
Tuesday afternoon
I’m just beginning to see
Now I’m on my way
It doesn’t matter to me
Chasing the clouds away
Something calls to me
The trees are drawing me near
I’ve got to find out why
Those gentle voices I hear
Explain it all with a sigh