About the song
Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark (OMD) delivered an enduring classic with their song “If You Leave,” a heartfelt ballad released in 1986. Known for their distinctive blend of synth-pop and new wave influences, OMD crafted a song that resonates with listeners through its emotive lyrics and evocative melody.
Written by OMD members Andy McCluskey and Paul Humphreys, “If You Leave” explores themes of love, longing, and the bittersweet nature of farewells. The song’s composition showcases OMD’s mastery of synthesizers and electronic instrumentation, which were hallmarks of their sound during the 1980s.
“If You Leave” gained prominence as part of the soundtrack for the iconic teen romantic comedy film “Pretty in Pink,” directed by John Hughes. The song was prominently featured during a pivotal moment in the film, solidifying its association with themes of youthful romance and heartache.
The track appeared on OMD’s album “The Pacific Age,” released in 1986. While the album itself received mixed reviews, “If You Leave” stood out as a standout track that captured the attention of both critics and fans alike. Its inclusion in “Pretty in Pink” catapulted the song to commercial success, reaching number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. This achievement underscored the song’s widespread appeal and enduring popularity.
Beyond its chart success, “If You Leave” has endured as a beloved classic, often evoking nostalgia for listeners who grew up during the 1980s. Its melancholic yet hopeful lyrics, coupled with OMD’s signature synth-driven sound, continue to resonate with audiences, making it a timeless addition to the lexicon of 1980s pop music.
For fans of OMD and enthusiasts of synth-pop, “If You Leave” remains a poignant reminder of the band’s ability to craft emotionally resonant music that transcends its era. Its place in popular culture as a defining song from both the band and the 1980s music scene is a testament to OMD’s enduring influence and the song’s lasting impact on listeners worldwide.
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Lyrics
If you leave, don’t leave now
Please don’t take my heart away
Promise me just one more night
Then we’ll go our separate ways
We’ve always had time on our sides
Now it’s fading fast
Every second, every moment
We’ve got to, we’ve gotta make it last
I touch you once, I touch you twice
I won’t let go at any price
I need you now like I need you then
You always said we’d still be friends someday
If you leave
I won’t cry
I won’t waste one single day
But if you leave, don’t look back
I’ll be running the other way
Seven years went under the bridge
Like time was standing still
Heaven knows what happens now
You’ve got to, you’ve gotta say you will
I touch you once, I touch you twice
I won’t let go at any price
I need you now like I need you then
You always said we’d meet again
I touch you once, I touch you twice
I won’t let go at any price
I need you now like I need you then
You always said we’d still be friends
I touch you once, I touch you twice
I won’t let go at any price
I need you now like I need you then
You always said we’d meet again someday
If you leave
Oh, if you leave
Oh, if you leave
Don’t look back
Don’t look back