Get Ready to Groove with the Iconic Dave Clark Five’s “Because”

“Because” is a song by the English rock and roll band The Dave Clark Five, released in 1964 as a B-side to their hit single “Glad All Over.” Despite being a B-side, “Because” gained significant popularity and became a fan favorite, showcasing a different side of the band’s musical style.

Background

• The Band: The Dave Clark Five were a major force in the British Invasion of the 1960s. Led by the energetic drumming of Dave Clark, the band was known for their high-octane live performances and catchy pop-rock tunes. While often overshadowed by The Beatles, The Dave Clark Five enjoyed immense success in the US, with 17 top 40 hits between 1964 and 1967.
• Songwriting and Recording: “Because” was written by the band’s keyboardist Mike Smith, a departure from their usual songwriting team of Clark and Smith. Recorded in London during a busy period for the band, “Because” brought a more introspective and melodic sound compared to their A-side’s driving energy.

Musical Style

• Shifting Gears: “Because” marked a shift in the band’s sound. Instead of the fast-paced, beat-driven rock of “Glad All Over,” “Because” offered a slower tempo, prominent piano chords, and smooth vocal harmonies. This showcased the band’s versatility and Mike Smith’s compositional skills.
• Pop Sensibilities: Despite its introspective nature, the song retained a strong pop sensibility. The catchy melody, distinctive piano riff, and driving beat ensured its appeal to a broad audience.
• Influences: The song’s sound can be traced back to the British Invasion’s adoption of American soul and doo-wop styles. Artists like The Drifters and The Shirelles likely influenced the song’s vocal harmonies and piano-driven melody.

Lyrics

• Theme of Unrequited Love: The lyrics express the pain of unrequited love. The singer questions why someone they care for doesn’t feel the same way, repeatedly asking “Because, because, what did I ever do to you?” This theme resonated with many listeners, particularly teenagers navigating the complexities of young love.
• Emotional Vulnerability: Unlike the bravado often associated with rock and roll, “Because” exposes the singer’s emotional vulnerability. Lines like “I can’t believe it’s true, you don’t feel the same way too” capture the raw pain of rejection.
• Open-ended Ending: The song ends with a sense of resignation, leaving the listener to wonder if the singer’s feelings will ever be reciprocated.

Cultural Impact

• Fan Favorite: Although a B-side, “Because” became a fan favorite. Its emotional honesty and catchy melody connected with audiences, propelling it to radio airplay and live show popularity.
• Showcase of Versatility: The song demonstrated the band’s ability to move beyond high-energy rock and explore a more melancholic and emotionally nuanced sound.
• British Invasion Legacy: While not as commercially successful as some of their other songs, “Because” remains a valuable contribution to the British Invasion’s legacy. It represented the genre’s exploration of diverse emotions and musical styles.

Conclusion

“Because” stands as a testament to The Dave Clark Five’s musical versatility and emotional depth. While not their biggest hit, the song’s melancholic melody, catchy pop sensibilities, and lyrics about unrequited love resonated with fans and cemented the band’s place as a significant force in the British Invasion. “Because” offers a glimpse beyond the fast-paced rock The Dave Clark Five were known for, revealing a band capable of exploring a wider range of musical and emotional territory.