About the song
Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) captivated audiences with their electrifying blend of rock, pop, and orchestral elements, showcasing their musical prowess in the 1979 hit “Last Train to London.” Written by ELO frontman Jeff Lynne, the song is a testament to the band’s ability to fuse classical influences with contemporary rock sensibilities.
Featured on their acclaimed album “Discovery,” released in 1979, “Last Train to London” quickly became one of ELO’s most beloved tracks. The album itself was a commercial success, reaching high positions on various charts globally and solidifying ELO’s status as one of the leading bands of the era.
The song’s infectious melody, driven by pulsating rhythms and Lynne’s distinctive vocals, captured the essence of late 1970s pop rock. Its narrative, centered around a fleeting romantic encounter at a train station, resonated with listeners and added a touch of nostalgia and romance to ELO’s repertoire.
“Last Train to London” achieved notable chart success, reaching the top ten in several countries, including the United States, where it peaked at number 39 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its popularity was further bolstered by its memorable music video, which featured the band performing amidst a vibrant, disco-inspired backdrop.
Beyond its chart performance, “Last Train to London” remains a standout in ELO’s discography, celebrated for its innovative production techniques and lyrical depth. Jeff Lynne’s knack for crafting catchy melodies and incorporating orchestral arrangements into rock music shines brightly in this track, highlighting ELO’s distinctive sound and musical vision.
For fans of ELO and enthusiasts of classic rock and pop, “Last Train to London” continues to evoke fond memories of the late 1970s music scene. Its enduring appeal lies in its timeless quality and the band’s ability to seamlessly blend genres, creating music that transcends generations and resonates with listeners of all ages.
Video
Lyrics
It was nine twenty-nine
Nine twenty-nine, back street, big city
The sun was going down
There was music all around, it felt so right
It was one of those nights
One of those nights when you feel the world stop turning
You were standing there
There was music in the air
I should have been away
But I knew I had to stay
Last train to London
Just heading out
Last train to London
Just leaving town
But I really want tonight to last forever
I really wanna be with you
Let the music play on down the line tonight
It was one of those nights
One of those nights when you feel the fire is burning
Everybody was there, everybody to share
It was so right
There you were on your own
Looking like you were the only one around
I had to be with you
Nothing else that I could do
I should have been away
But I knew I had to stay
Last train to London
Just heading out
Last train to London
Just leaving town
But I really want tonight to last forever
I really wanna be with you
Let the music play on down the line tonight
Underneath a starry sky
Time was still but hours must really have rushed by
I didn’t realize
But love was in your eyes
I really should have gone
But love went on and on
Last train to London
Just heading out
Last train to London
Just leaving town
But I really want tonight to last forever
I really wanna be with you
Let the music play on down the line tonight
But I really want tonight to last forever
I really wanna be with you
Let the music play on down the line tonight