In 1976, Hell either was kicked out of the Heartbreakers or quit the group, depending on whom you believe, and was replaced by Billy Rath, who, according to legend, was a gigolo. Hell went on to form his own band, The Voidoids.
Arriving for a European tour just as the UK punk scene was building momentum, the Heartbreakers developed a following playing in and around London. The band's members and image were widely associated with drug use, specifically, heroin. The Sex Pistols invited them to open for them on the ill-fated Anarchy Tour. They shortly signed with Track Records. Their debut--and only--studio album, L.A.M.F., featured all the Heartbreakers' popular live songs. The release of the album put a huge strain on the band, because of anger among some band members over the poor quality of the mix. Several of the members of the band left at this point. The band reformed in 1979 for a few farewell shows at Max’s Kansas City with drummer Ty Stix sitting in for Nolan. The resulting live album Live at Max's Kansas City '79 is considered a punk classic. The Heartbreakers' song, London Boys, is a swipe at the Sex Pistols, in response to the Pistols' New York, a put-down of the New York Dolls.
The band re-formed occasionally to play at New York clubs until the death of Johnny Thunders in 1991. Jerry Nolan died a few months later, in 1992. Live shows often consisted of songs performed with the New York Dolls or taken from Johnny Thunders' solo career. Richard Hell rarely plays music live, concentrating instead on writing and spoken-word performances. Billy Rath's whereabouts are currently unknown, leading to various rumors such as that he died or became a priest. Walter Lure still performs about once a month with his band the Waldos, performing mostly Heartbreakers songs
Let Go
The Heartbreakers Lyrics
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In the parking lot or in the lounge
Standing on the corner with the rest of the kids
I say what is it baby, what is it
Let go
I don't know why you just don't blow
Radar love cause you're always around
Following me never saying a word
Looking hypnotically insane
The Heartbreakers released Let Go in 1977 as part of their debut album "L.A.M.F". The song features a heavy, bluesy rock n' roll sound that is emblematic of the punk scene of the 70s. The song is about a person who keeps seeing their ex everywhere they go, whether it be in a crowd, in a lounge, or even in a parking lot. The singer is clearly frustrated with this constant reminder of their ex and is asking them to move on and "blow". The lyrics suggest that the ex is following them around and being a bit creepy by not saying anything. The singer describes these actions as hypnotically insane.
One interpretation of the song is that the singer is the one who is struggling to let go of the past relationship, and is projecting their own obsession onto their ex. They are unable to move on and escape the memories of their former lover. The lyrics also imply that the ex may be intentionally trying to get the singer's attention by always being around, possibly indicating a desire to rekindle the relationship.
Line by Line Meaning
Oh everyplace I go I see your face in the crowd
No matter where I am, I am reminded of you because you are always on my mind and I cannot escape these thoughts.
In the parking lot or in the lounge
Even in mundane places like a parking lot or a lounge, you haunt me with memories of us.
Standing on the corner with the rest of the kids
Among the people I used to hang out with, you still find a way to make me feel your presence.
I say what is it baby, what is it
I question myself and wonder why I can't seem to move on from you.
Let go
I need to let go of this feeling and move on.
I don't know why you just don't blow
Even though it hurts, I don't understand why you can't just leave me alone and let me go.
Oh what is it baby that drives you wild
I cannot comprehend what it is about me that captivates you so much and causes you to act this way.
Radar love cause you're always around
It feels like you have a radar for my whereabouts and activities, as you are consistently present in my life.
Following me never saying a word
Your actions speak louder than words, as you continually trail me but never communicate your true intentions or emotions.
Looking hypnotically insane
Your behavior and gaze are hauntingly intense and irrational, making me feel uneasy and uncomfortable.
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, CONCORD MUSIC PUBLISHING LLC
Written by: TIMOTHY PAGNOTTA, VICCI MARTINEZ, Jerry Nolan, John Genzale
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind