About the song
“I Go Crazy,” penned and performed by Paul Davis, stands as a poignant testament to the enduring power of nostalgia and lost love. Released in 1977 as the lead single from his album “Singer of Songs: Teller of Tales,” the song quickly captured hearts and climbed to #7 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1978, solidifying its place in the annals of soft rock history.
The narrative woven into “I Go Crazy” revolves around a chance encounter between a man and his former lover, evoking the universal theme of unexpected reunions and the flood of emotions they provoke. Davis, with his soulful delivery and heartfelt lyrics, captures the essence of vulnerability and longing. The song strikes a chord with listeners who have experienced the bittersweet tension of encountering a past flame after moving on.
Interestingly, Davis initially envisioned the song as a vehicle for Lou Rawls, a testament to his belief in its potential. However, the studio opted to release Davis’s own raw, emotionally charged demo version instead, a decision that resonated deeply with audiences.
Lyrically, “I Go Crazy” paints a picture of unresolved feelings and emotional turmoil. The protagonist grapples with the rush of memories and affection upon seeing his former love, all the while acknowledging that he hasn’t truly moved on. Lines like “When I look in your eyes, I go crazy” underscore the visceral impact of the encounter, making it a relatable anthem for anyone who has wrestled with lingering emotions from a past relationship.
Musically, Davis’s vocal prowess is complemented by a lush arrangement featuring Fender Rhodes electric piano, ARP Odyssey, and a string ensemble, masterfully arranged by Michael Zager. The instrumentation adds depth to the song’s emotional landscape, enhancing its evocative power.
Over the years, “I Go Crazy” has been embraced by both artists and audiences alike, inspiring numerous covers across genres. Notable renditions include those by Lee Greenwood, Barry Manilow, and Hong Kong singer Leon Lai, each interpreting the song through their unique musical lens while staying true to its emotional core.
In essence, “I Go Crazy” remains a timeless ballad that resonates with its portrayal of love, loss, and the enduring impact of past relationships. Paul Davis’s enduring contribution to the realm of soft rock continues to captivate listeners, ensuring that his heartfelt ode to lost love remains etched in musical history.
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Lyrics
Hello girl it’s been awhile
Guess you’ll be glad to know
That I’ve learned how to laugh and smile
Getting over you was slow
They say old lovers can be good friends
But I never thought I’d really see you
I’d really see you again
I go crazy
When I look in your eyes I still go crazy
No my heart just can’t hide that old feelin’ inside
Way deep down inside
Oh baby, you know when I look in your eyes I go crazy
You say he satisfies your mind
Tells you all of his dreams
I know how much that means to you
I realize that I was blind
Just when I thought I was over you
I see your face and it just ain’t true
No it just ain’t true
I go crazy
When I look in your eyes I still go crazy
That old flame comes alive, it starts burning inside
Way deep down inside
Oh baby, you know when I look in your eyes I go crazy
Ooh, oh-ooh, oh
I go crazy
You know when I look in your eyes I go crazy
No my heart just can’t hide that old feelin’ inside
Way deep down inside
I go crazy