Looking For The Magic By Dwight Twilley Band
If you were a fan of power pop in the late 70s, you would have definitely heard of the Dwight Twilley Band. The Tulsa, Oklahoma-based band was formed in 1974 by Dwight Twilley and Phil Seymour, and they went on to become one of the most influential bands in the genre. One of their biggest hits, "Looking For The Magic," has become a cult classic, and it's still being discovered by new generations of music lovers. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into the song, its history, and its enduring appeal.
The Origins of "Looking For The Magic"
"Looking For The Magic" was first released in 1977 as part of the Dwight Twilley Band's debut album, "Sincerely." The song was written by Twilley and Seymour, and it was produced by the legendary power pop producer, Phil Spector. Spector was known for his "Wall of Sound" production style, and he brought that same approach to "Looking For The Magic." The song features a driving beat, shimmering guitars, and lush harmonies, all of which create a sense of euphoria that's hard to resist.
Despite the song's undeniable catchiness, it wasn't a huge commercial success at the time. It only charted at #88 on the Billboard Hot 100, but it went on to become a cult classic, thanks to its inclusion in the 1983 movie, "Valley Girl."
The Lyrics and Meaning Behind "Looking For The Magic"
One of the reasons why "Looking For The Magic" has endured is because of its timeless lyrics. The song is about the search for something elusive and magical, something that can't be easily defined or explained. Here are some of the most memorable lyrics:
I'm looking for the magic
In a world where the magic's gone
I'm looking for the magic
In a world of silver dawn
The song's chorus is particularly powerful:
Show me a trick
Give me a sign
I want to believe
You're mine, all mine
The lyrics capture the sense of yearning and longing that's at the heart of the human experience. We all want to believe in something greater than ourselves, something that can fill the emptiness inside.
The Legacy of "Looking For The Magic"
Over the years, "Looking For The Magic" has become a touchstone for power pop fans and musicians alike. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including The Posies, The Windbreakers, and The dB's. It's also been featured in several movies and TV shows, such as "Breaking Bad," "Freaks and Geeks," and "The Goldbergs."
Despite its enduring popularity, the Dwight Twilley Band never quite achieved the level of success that they deserved. The band disbanded in 1986, and Phil Seymour passed away in 1993. Dwight Twilley continued to release music throughout the years, but he never had another hit as big as "Looking For The Magic."
Conclusion
"Looking For The Magic" is a classic song that has stood the test of time. Its catchy melody, lush harmonies, and timeless lyrics have made it a favorite of power pop fans for over 40 years. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to the enduring power of music, and to the impact that the Dwight Twilley Band had on the genre. If you haven't heard "Looking For The Magic" yet, give it a listen. You might just find the magic you've been looking for.
