About the song
“Go West” is a notable song by the American disco group Village People, released in June 1979 as the second single from their fourth studio album of the same name. The song was crafted by Jacques Morali, Henri Belolo, and lead singer Victor Willis, with Morali also taking on the role of producer. As the disco era was reaching its peak, “Go West” emerged as a significant hit, particularly resonating within the disco community. It achieved top-20 status in Belgium, Ireland, and the UK, further cementing its place in the era’s vibrant musical landscape.
The inspiration behind the song’s title stems from the famous 19th-century American phrase “Go West, young man,” often associated with newspaper editor Horace Greeley. This phrase symbolized the pioneering spirit and the pursuit of new opportunities in the American West. The song’s melody bears a resemblance to the State Anthem of the Soviet Union, composed by Alexander Alexandrov, adding a unique touch to its composition.
The Village People’s “Go West” is characterized by its energetic disco-pop sound, featuring a catchy hook and powerful harmonies. It later appeared in various greatest hits compilations and was even remixed for radio in 1997, following the success of the 1993 cover by the English synth-pop duo Pet Shop Boys. Critics of the time praised the song for its vibrant production and memorable chorus. Billboard highlighted the song’s enthusiastic embrace of wide open spaces, while Record World commended its dynamic production. Classic Rock History also recognized it as one of the Village People’s significant tracks.
Overall, “Go West” remains a classic example of late 1970s disco music, known for its infectious melody and inspiring message.
Video
Lyrics
“Go West”
Heyhey
well well well well
yeaah
yeaah(Together) We will go our way
(Together) We will leave someday
(Together) Your hand in my hand
(Together) We will make the plans(Together) We will fly so high
(Together) Tell our friends goodbye
(Together) We will start life new
(Together) This is what we’ll do(Go west) Life is peaceful there
(Go west) Lots of open air
(Go west) To begin life new
(Go west) This is what we’ll do(Go west) Sun in winter time
(Go west) We will do just fine
(Go west) Where the skies are blue
(Go west) This and more we’ll do(Together) We will love the beach
(Together) We will learn and teach
(Together) Change our pace of life
(Together) We will work and strive(I love you) I know you love me
(I want you) Happy and carefree
(So that’s why) I have no protest
(When you say) You want to go west(Go west) Life is peaceful there
(Go west) Lots of open air
(Go west) To begin life new
(Go west) This is what we’ll do(Go west) Sun in winter time
(Go west) We will do just fine
(Go west) Where the skies are blue
(Go west) This and more we’ll do(I know that) there are many ways
(to live there) in the sun or shade.
(Together) we will find a place
(to settle] down and live with space(without the) busy pace back east,
(the hustling), rustling of the feet,
(I know I’m) ready to leave too,
(so this is) what we’re going to do,(Go west) Life is peaceful there.
(Go west) Lots of open air.
(Go west) To begin life new.
(Go west) This is what we’ll do.(Go west) Sun in winter time.
(Go west) We will do just fine.
(Go west) Where the skies are blue.
(Go west) This and more we’ll do.(Go west) Life is peaceful there.
(Go west) Lots of open air.
(Go west) To begin life new.
(Go west) This is what we’ll do.[fade out]
(Go west) together together we’ll gone our way
(Go west) together together you lead me the way
(Go west) you begin life new
(Go west) this is what will do
(Go west) life is peaceful there