A unique, and charismatic performer, Dave Berry performed a mixture of hard R&B and pop ballads. He was extremely popular in Britain, and on Continental Europe. He had an unusual ambition for a pop performer trying to make a name for himself - to appear on TV completely hidden by a prop. In his own words, to "not appear, to stay behind something and not come out". As a rule he did a good job; hiding behind the upturned collar of his leather jacket, or even wrapping himself around, and effectively behind, the microphone's own lead. His early hits name checked his so-called backing band, The Cruisers, although their supposed creditable presence is difficult to ascertain.
"The Crying Game" (1964), "Mama" (1966) and "This Strange Effect" (1965 - the latter written by Ray Davies), are among his best-remembered hits. Indeed, "This Strange Effect" became a massive Number One hit for him in Holland and Belgium, countries where he still enjoys superstar status, resulting in a Special Award from Radio Veronica, Holland, for their best selling pop single of all time.
Another one of his songs, "Don't Gimme No Lip Child", was covered by the Sex Pistols. His stage act, drawing largely on Elvis Presley, and Gene Vincent, provided an inspiration for Alvin Stardust. Such was his enigmatic, and unconventional presence, that several punk rock acts, such as the Sex Pistols, later acknowledged him as an inspiration.
Dave regained some, much-overlooked recognition, when he was the surprise hit of the annual Alexis Korner Tribute in 1995.
In 1998 "This Strange Effect" was covered by the Belgian band Hooverphonic, on their album Blue Wonder Power Milk.
If You Wait for Love
Dave Berry Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
And with so little time it's best to say nothing at all
Just let me love you while I can
When I'm gone you'll understand
That if you wait for love
You may be too late for love
This day you'll never forget
When I'm gone you have no regret Though I'm leaving today I'll remember this day for a long, long time
Just let me love you while I can
When I'm gone you'll understand
That if you wait for love
You may be too late for love
Today you're mine can't you see
It's now or never for me Oh just let me love you while I can
When I'm gone you'll understand
That if you wait for love
You may be too late for love
This day you'll never forget
When I'm gone you have no regret
The lyrics of Dave Berry's "If You Wait for Love" seem to convey a sense of urgency and desperation, likely inspired by the fleeting nature of human existence. The lyrics talk about the need to express love without delay as time is precious, and one never knows what tomorrow holds. The first verse reflects on the conflict inherent in wanting to express oneself but feeling constrained by time, leading to holding back. However, in moments like these, it's best to take action, expressing love while one can. The chorus highlights the gravity of the situation, warning that waiting for love may mean you lose the chance to experience it altogether. The second verse speaks of the importance of living in the moment, enjoying the present and being grateful for it, as it can never be replicated again.
Overall, the song emphasizes the importance of seizing the moment, making the most of the time you have, and expressing your love without reservation or hesitation. It touches on universal themes such as love, loss, and the fleeting nature of life.
Line by Line Meaning
I've got so much to say and so little time
Although I have a lot to express, I have limited time to do so.
And with so little time it's best to say nothing at all
Sometimes it's better to keep quiet and not say anything when there isn't enough time.
Just let me love you while I can
Allow me to express my love to you in the present moment.
When I'm gone you'll understand
Once I pass away, you will comprehend the depth of my love towards you.
That if you wait for love
Waiting for love is not always an ideal option.
You may be too late for love
Waiting too long for love can have adverse effects and cause one to miss the opportunities for love.
This day you'll never forget
This occasion will remain in your memory forever.
Though I'm leaving today I'll remember this day for a long, long time
Even though I am departing, the memories of this day will linger within me for an extended period.
And I'll remember the way that I heard you say you're all mine
I will recollect how you claimed me as yours when you spoke those words to me.
Today you're mine can't you see
You need to realize that presently, I belong to you.
It's now or never for me
The opportunity for me to express my love to you is now, or it may never present itself again.
This day you'll never forget
This day will be etched in your memory forever.
When I'm gone you have no regret
You will have no reason to regret when I leave.
Contributed by Eva T. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
John Robertson
original is better but the band and production is ace
gerard veenstra
Prachtig ik had deze singel ook een goed nummer
Jan Ligthart
Wat bedoel je?
Had deze singel. Ook een goed nummer.
Had deze. Singel ook een goed nummer.
Had deze singel ook. Een goed nummer.
Had deze singel ook een. Goed nummer.
Punten, komma's en hoofdletters willen wel eens helpen.
Daniel Pawlowicz
Genial