Smokie – Living Next Door to Alice (1976)

About the song

Smokie, a British band with a penchant for soft rock and ballads, released their rendition of “Living Next Door to Alice” in November 1976. This song, originally penned by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller in 1974, had been popularized by the American rock band New York Dolls. However, it was Smokie’s version that truly resonated with audiences worldwide.

Smokie’s interpretation of the song brought a distinctive charm and emotional depth. Their harmonies were impeccable, and the lead vocals, characterized by a certain warmth and sincerity, captivated listeners. The band’s arrangement was both nostalgic and contemporary, striking a balance between traditional rock elements and a more pop-oriented sound.

The lyrics of “Living Next Door to Alice” tell a poignant tale of unrequited love and longing. The narrator expresses his deep affection for his neighbor, Alice, but acknowledges the impossibility of their relationship. The song’s themes of love, loss, and the passage of time are universal, making it relatable to audiences of all ages.

The commercial success of Smokie’s “Living Next Door to Alice” was undeniable. The single topped charts in several European countries and even reached the top 25 in the United States. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to the song’s catchy melody, heartfelt lyrics, and the band’s skillful performance.

Video

Lyrics

Sally called when she got the word
And she said, “I suppose you’ve heard ’bout Alice”
So I rushed to the window and I looked outside
And I could hardly believe my eyes
As a big limousine rode 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 wanna know
‘Cause for 24 years I’ve been living next door to Alice
24 years just waitin’ 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

We grew up together, two kids in the park
Carved out 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 the big limousine pulled slowly out of 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 wanna know
‘Cause for 24 years I’ve been living next door to Alice
24 years just waitin’ 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

Sally called back, and asked how I felt
She said, “I know how to help, get over Alice”
She said, “Alice is gone, but I’m still here
You know I’ve been waiting 24 years”
And the 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 wanna know
‘Cause for 24 years I’ve been living next door to Alice
24 years just waitin’ 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

Though I’ll never get used to not living next door to Alice