About the song
“The Things We Do for Love,” a timeless anthem by British band 10cc, encapsulates the essence of 1970s pop rock with its infectious melodies and clever lyrics. Released in 1976 as a single and later featured on their album ‘Deceptive Bends’ in 1977, this song marked a pivotal moment for the band following the departure of members Kevin Godley and Lol Creme.
Originally conceived during the ‘How Dare You!’ sessions, the song faced initial skepticism from Godley and Creme, who were known for their avant-garde approach. Eric Stewart, recalling those sessions, noted the tension: “Kevin was coming out with some heavy statements like, ‘I don’t want to do any more crap like this,’ after I played ‘The Things We Do for Love’ to him and Lol.” Despite early misgivings, the song’s upbeat tempo, polished production, and catchy chorus resonated widely.
Critically acclaimed for its craftsmanship, “The Things We Do for Love” was praised by Record World for its “well-crafted tune with a crisp, pop sound,” while Cash Box lauded it as a blend of Beatles-esque influences with rock ‘n’ roll vigor and the lush harmonies characteristic of 10cc’s repertoire.
The single’s chart performance mirrored its universal appeal, achieving top positions in several countries. It reached No. 1 in Canada, No. 6 in the UK, No. 5 in Australia, No. 13 in the Netherlands, No. 2 in Ireland, and No. 5 in the US, where it earned gold certification and became 10cc’s best-selling single. This success underscored the band’s ability to craft music that bridged genres and captivated audiences across continents.
“The Things We Do for Love” features Eric Stewart on lead vocals, electric guitar, and keyboards, with Graham Gouldman contributing bass, guitars, tambourine, and backing vocals, and Paul Burgess on drums, tambourine, and gong. This lineup, despite the departure of key members, showcased 10cc’s resilience and musical prowess, solidifying their place in the pantheon of 1970s pop rock icons.
Decades after its release, “The Things We Do for Love” remains a testament to 10cc’s enduring legacy, celebrated for its melodic charm, lyrical wit, and the band’s ability to blend sophistication with popular appeal. As listeners continue to rediscover its timeless allure, the song continues to inspire new generations with its heartfelt exploration of the complexities of love and relationships.
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Lyrics
Too many broken hearts have fallen in the river
Too many lonely souls have drifted out to sea
You lay your bets and then you pay the price
The things we do for love, the things we do for love
Communication is the problem to the answer
You’ve got her number and your hand is on the phone
The weather’s turned and all the lines are down
The things we do for love, the things we do for love
Like walking in the rain and the snow
When there’s nowhere to go
And you’re feelin’ like a part of you is dying
And you’re looking for the answer in her eyes
You think you’re gonna break up
Then she says she wants to make up
Ooh you made me love you
Ooh you’ve got a way
Ooh you had me crawling up the wall
Like walking in the rain and the snow
When there’s nowhere to go
And you’re feelin’ like a part of you is dying
And you’re looking for the answer in her eyes
You think you’re gonna break up
Then she says she wants to make up
Ooh you made me love you
Ooh you’ve got a way
Ooh you had me crawling up the wall
A compromise would surely help the situation
Agree to disagree but disagree to part
When after all it’s just a compromise of
The things we do for love, the things we do for love