About the song
“Look Away” is a memorable power ballad by the renowned American rock band Chicago, released in 1988. This song was crafted by Diane Warren, a talented songwriter known for her impactful melodies, and it was produced by Ron Nevison, who has worked with notable bands like Heart. Featuring Bill Champlin on lead vocals, “Look Away” is the second single from Chicago’s album *Chicago 19*.
Upon its release, “Look Away” achieved remarkable success. It reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, where it stayed for two weeks in December 1988. This song became Chicago’s third and final number one hit, following their earlier successes with “If You Leave Me Now” in 1976 and “Hard to Say I’m Sorry” in 1982. Not only did it top the Hot 100, but it also was recognized as the number one song on the 1989 year-end Billboard Hot 100 chart, despite its peak position being in late 1988.
The song holds a special place in Chicago’s history as it is their only number one hit after the departure of Peter Cetera in 1985. Its success marked a significant moment for the band, reflecting their continued relevance and ability to connect with audiences.
The production of “Look Away” was a collaborative effort with Chicago’s manager Howard Kaufman recommending Diane Warren’s songwriting expertise. Her demos, though simple, always showcased strong vocal performances, which resonated well with the band. Interestingly, the song was initially offered to other bands like Cheap Trick and Europe before Chicago accepted it, highlighting its wide appeal.
In terms of musical style, “Look Away” marked a shift for Chicago, moving away from their signature brass-heavy sound and embracing a new direction with Champlin’s vocals taking center stage. This change allowed the band to explore fresh musical avenues, distinguishing their sound from their earlier work.
Overall, “Look Away” represents a significant chapter in Chicago’s career, combining heartfelt lyrics, a powerful ballad style, and a pivotal moment in their evolution as a band.
Video
Lyrics
When you called me up this morning
Told me about the new love you found
I said, “I’m happy for you
I’m really happy for you”
Found someone else
I guess I won’t be comin’ ’round
I guess it’s over, baby
It’s really over, baby, whoa-oh
And from what you said
I know you’ve gotten over me
It’ll never be the way it used to be
So if it’s gotta be this way
Don’t worry, baby
I can take the news, okay
But if you see me walking by
And the tears are in my eyes
Look away, baby, look away
If we meet on the streets someday
And I don’t know what to say
Look away, baby, look away
Don’t look at me
I don’t want you to see me this way
When we both agreed as lovers
We were better off as friends
That’s how it had to be
Yeah, that’s how it had to be
I tell you I’m fine
But sometimes I just pretend
Wish you were holding me
Wish you were still holding me, oh-oh, oh
I just never thought
That I would be replaced so soon
I wasn’t prepared
To hear those words from you
I know I wanted to be free
Yeah, baby, this is how we wanted it to be
But if you see me walking by
And the tears are in my eyes
Look away, baby, look away
And if we meet on the streets someday
And I don’t know what to say
Look away, baby, look away
Don’t look at me
I don’t want you to see me this way
If you see me walking by
And the tears are in my eyes
Look away, baby, look away
If we meet on the streets someday
And I don’t know what to say
Look away, baby, look away
Don’t look at me
I don’t want you to see me
If you see me walking by
And the tears are in my eyes
Look away, baby, look away
Don’t look at me
I don’t want you to see me
When you called me up this morning
Told me about the new love you found
I said, “I’m happy for you
I’m really happy for you”