About the song
A Moody Sequel: Unveiling “I Know You’re Out There Somewhere”
Released in 1988, “I Know You’re Out There Somewhere” by the English rock band the Moody Blues marks the final chapter of a musical journey that began two years prior with their hit single “Your Wildest Dreams.” Written by guitarist Justin Hayward, this song carries a sentimental weight, serving as a sequel that explores themes of lost love and enduring memories.
Beyond its place in the Moody Blues’ discography, “I Know You’re Out There Somewhere” holds its own significance. It charted at #30 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming the band’s last Top 40 hit in the United States. However, its impact transcends commercial success. Critics have lauded the song for its emotional resonance and intricate composition.
The song’s origin story is fascinating. Inspired by the unexpected success of “Your Wildest Dreams,” Hayward revisited his musical archives and unearthed a hidden gem – “I Know You’re Out There Somewhere.” Recognizing a similar emotional core and thematic thread to its predecessor, he deliberately crafted the song to echo “Your Wildest Dreams” sonically. Both tracks share the same tempo, keyboard sounds, and bass lines, creating a sense of continuity within the narrative.
Lyrically, “I Know You’re Out There Somewhere” evokes a sense of nostalgia. The singer reflects on a past love, acknowledging the passage of time and the changes life has brought. The song’s open-ended nature leaves room for interpretation. While some, like critic Brian Kachejian, view it as a straightforward tale of longing for a lost teenage sweetheart, others see a deeper spiritual message embedded within the lyrics. This ambiguity adds to the song’s enduring appeal.
Hayward himself remains somewhat ambivalent about the potential consequences of rekindling such a flame. He suggests that the beauty of the memory might be best left undisturbed, a sentiment echoed in the song’s final verse. The accompanying music video, featuring actors Janet Spencer-Turner and Ben Daniels, further reinforces this theme, showcasing the characters from both “Your Wildest Dreams” and “I Know You’re Out There Somewhere.”
“I Know You’re Out There Somewhere” stands as a testament to the Moody Blues’ enduring songwriting prowess. It is a song that evokes powerful emotions, inviting listeners to contemplate their own past loves and the enduring power of memory. With its captivating melody, intricate instrumentation, and poignant lyrics, this song continues to resonate with audiences decades after its release.
Video
Lyrics
I know you’re out there somewhere
Somewhere, somewhere
I know I’ll find you somehow
And somehow I’ll return again to you
The mist is lifting slowly
I can see the way ahead
And I’ve left behind the empty streets
That once inspired my life
And the strength of the emotion
Is like thunder in the air
‘Cause the promise that we made each other
Haunts me to the end
I know you’re out there somewhere
Somewhere, somewhere
I know you’re out there somewhere
Somewhere you can hear my voice
I know I’ll find you somehow
Somehow, somehow
I know I’ll find you somehow
And somehow I’ll return again to you
The secret of your beauty
And the mystery of your soul
I’ve been searching for in everyone I meet
And the times I’ve been mistaken
It’s impossible to say
And the grass is growing
Underneath our feet
I know you’re out there somewhere
Somewhere, somewhere
I know you’re out there somewhere
Somewhere you can hear my voice
I know I’ll find you somehow
Somehow, somehow
I know I’ll find you somehow
And somehow I’ll return again to you
You see, I know you’re out there somewhere
Oh yes, I know you’re out there somewhere
You see, I know I’ll find you somehow
Oh yes, I know I’ll find you somehow
The words that I remember
From my childhood still are true
That there’s none so blind
As those who will not see
And to those who lack the courage
And say it’s dangerous to try
Well they just don’t know
That love eternal will not be denied
I know you’re out there somewhere
Somewhere, somewhere
I know you’re out there somewhere
Somewhere you can hear my voice
I know I’ll find you somehow
Somehow, somehow
I know I’ll find you somehow
And somehow I’ll return again to you
Yes I know it’s going to happen
(I know it’s going to happen)
I can feel you getting near
(I feel you getting near)
And soon we’ll be returning
To the fountain of our youth
And if you wake up wondering
(If you wake up wondering)
In the darkness I’ll be there
(You know I’ll be there)
My arms will close around you
And protect you with the truth
I know you’re out there somewhere
Somewhere, somewhere
I know you’re out there somewhere
Somewhere you can hear my voice
I know I’ll find you somehow
Somehow, somehow
I know I’ll find you somehow
And somehow I’ll return again to you