About the song
“Key Largo,” the debut single by Bertie Higgins, released in September 1981, emerged as a poignant ode to love and nostalgia against the backdrop of cinematic romance. This song not only marked Higgins’ entry into the music scene but also secured its place as a memorable hit of the early 1980s, reaching No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and capturing hearts with its evocative storytelling.
The lyrics of “Key Largo” weave a tale of yearning and reflection, urging a lover to reconsider parting ways, drawing parallels to the timeless allure of Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall in the 1948 film named after the Florida locale. Higgins paints a vivid picture of romance akin to a classic Hollywood movie, where “We had it all / Just like Bogie and Bacall / Starring in our own late late show / Sailin’ away to Key Largo.” These lines resonate deeply with the film’s enduring charm and the longing for a perfect, unattainable love.
Moreover, the song pays homage to another cinematic gem, “Casablanca,” with nods to iconic lines like “Here’s looking at you, kid” and the plea, “Please say you will / Play it again.” Such references add layers of nostalgia and cultural depth to Higgins’ narrative, enriching the listener’s experience with echoes of beloved silver screen moments.
Accompanied by a music video shot in Tarpon Springs, Florida, directed by David Jean Schweitzer, “Key Largo” visually encapsulates the song’s essence. Set against scenic backdrops including Anclote Key and Fred Howard Park, the video follows Higgins reminiscing and walking alongside a young woman, portrayed by Patty Wolfe. Their journey through sun-drenched locales culminates in a sunset stroll along the beach, mirroring the wistful yearning depicted in the song’s lyrics.
“Key Largo” not only etched its place in musical history as Higgins’ signature hit but also resonated with audiences through its cinematic nostalgia and heartfelt storytelling. Its enduring popularity is evidenced by its gold certification by the RIAA and its topping of the Adult Contemporary chart. VH1 later recognized its impact, ranking it #75 on its list of 100 Greatest One Hit Wonders of the 80s in 2009.
In conclusion, “Key Largo” remains a timeless anthem of love and longing, enriched by cinematic references and brought to life through Bertie Higgins’ evocative vocals and imagery. It continues to evoke a sense of romantic nostalgia, sailing listeners away to the shores of Key Largo, where dreams and memories blend seamlessly.
Video
Lyrics
Wrapped around each other
Trying so hard to stay warm
That first cold winter together
Lying in each other’s arms
Watching those old movies
Falling in love so desperately
Honey, I was your hero
And you were my leading lady
We had it all
Just like Bogie and Bacall
Starring in our own late, late show
Sailing away to Key Largo
Here’s lookin’ at you kid
Missing all the things we did
We can find it once again, I know
Just like they did in Key Largo
Honey, can’t you remember
We played all the parts
That sweet scene of surrender
When you gave me your heart
Please say you will… play it again
‘Cause I love you still
Baby, this can’t be the end
We had it all
Just like Bogie and Bacall
Starring in our old late, late show
Sailing away to Key Largo
Here’s lookin’ at you kid
Missing all the things we did
We can find it once again, I know
Just like they did in Key Largo
We had it all
Just like Bogie and Bacall
Starring in our old late, late show
Sailing away to Key Largo