About the song
Smokie’s “Living Next Door to Alice” is a beloved pop rock classic that resonates with its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics. Originally released in 1976 as a single, the song was written by Nicky Chinn and Mike Chapman, a prolific songwriting duo known for crafting numerous hits during the 1970s.
Smokie, a British rock band formed in Bradford, West Yorkshire, gained international success with “Living Next Door to Alice.” The song was included in their album “Midnight Cafe,” which showcased their ability to blend rock sensibilities with melodic hooks. The band’s lineup at the time featured lead vocalist Chris Norman, whose distinctive voice brought an emotive quality to the song’s narrative.
“Living Next Door to Alice” climbed the charts in several countries, including reaching number 5 on the UK Singles Chart and achieving significant success across Europe and Australia. Its enduring popularity led to various re-releases and cover versions over the years, highlighting its timeless appeal.
The song tells the story of unrequited love and longing, centered around the narrator’s regret over missed opportunities with Alice, his neighbor. Its relatable themes and sing-along chorus have made it a staple on classic rock playlists and radio stations worldwide.
Smokie’s rendition of “Living Next Door to Alice” showcases their ability to craft memorable pop rock anthems that resonate across generations. With its infectious melody and poignant lyrics, the song remains a testament to the band’s enduring legacy and their impact on the music scene of the 1970s.
For fans of classic rock and nostalgic melodies, “Living Next Door to Alice” continues to evoke a sense of nostalgia while maintaining its relevance in the realm of timeless pop music.
Video
Lyrics
Sally called when she got the word
And she said: “I suppose you’ve heard
About Alice”
When I rushed to the window
And I looked outside
And I could hardly believe my eyes
As a big limousine rolled up
Into Alice’s drive…Oh, I don’t know why she’s leaving
Or where she’s gonna go
I guess she’s got her reasons
But I just don’t want to know
‘Cos for twenty-four years
I’ve been living next door to Alice
Twenty-four years just waiting for a chance
To tell her how I feel, and maybe get a second glance
Now I’ve got to get used to not living next door to Alice…We grew up together
Two kids in the park
We carved our initials
Deep in the bark
Me and Alice
Now she walks through the door
With her head held high
Just for a moment, I caught her eye
As a big limousine pulled slowly
Out of Alice’s driveOh, I don’t know why she’s leaving
Or where she’s gonna go
I guess she’s got her reasons
But I just don’t want to know
‘Cos for twenty-four years
I’ve been living next door to Alice
Twenty-four years just waiting for a chance
To tell her how I feel, and maybe get a second glance
Now I gotta get used to not living next door to Alice…And Sally called back and asked how I felt
And she said: “I know how to help
Get over Alice”
She said: “Now Alice is gone
But I’m still here
You know I’ve been waiting
For twenty-four years…”
And a big limousine disappeared…I don’t know why she’s leaving
Or where she’s gonna go
I guess she’s got her reasons
But I just don’t want to know
‘Cos for twenty-four years
I’ve been living next door to Alice
Twenty-four years just waiting for a chance
To tell her how I feel, and maybe get a second glance
But I’ll never get used to not living next door to Alice…No, I’ll never get used to not living next door to Alice…