Smokie – Living Next Door to Alice (1976)

About the song

Let’s dive into the nostalgic melodies of “Living Next Door to Alice” by the renowned British band, Smokie. This timeless classic, released in 1976, holds a special place in the hearts of many music lovers, evoking memories of bygone days and lost love.

Written by the prolific songwriting duo Nicky Chinn and Mike Chapman, “Living Next Door to Alice” tells the story of unrequited love and longing, set against a backdrop of catchy hooks and infectious rhythms. Its heartfelt lyrics and melodic charm struck a chord with audiences worldwide, propelling the song to the top of the charts.

“Living Next Door to Alice” was featured on Smokie’s album “Midnight Café,” which enjoyed commercial success upon its release. The album showcased the band’s versatile musical style and solidified their reputation as one of the leading acts of the 70s music scene.

Upon its release, “Living Next Door to Alice” climbed the charts with ease, reaching the impressive position of number five on the UK Singles Chart. Its catchy chorus and relatable lyrics resonated with listeners, earning Smokie widespread acclaim and recognition.

What sets “Living Next Door to Alice” apart is its timeless appeal and universal themes of love and longing. Decades after its release, the song continues to captivate audiences, serving as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of music to evoke emotion and transcend generations.

So, let’s take a trip down memory lane and immerse ourselves in the nostalgic sounds of “Living Next Door to Alice” by Smokie. As we listen to its soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics, we are reminded of the timeless allure of classic rock and the enduring legacy of one of the greatest bands of the 70s.

Video

Lyrics

Sally called when she got the word
And she said, “I suppose you’ve heard ’bout Alice”
So I rushed to the window and I looked outside
And I could hardly believe my eyes
As a big limousine rode up into Alice’s drive
Oh, I don’t know why she’s leaving, or where she’s gonna go
I guess she’s got her reasons, but I just don’t wanna know
‘Cause for 24 years I’ve been living next door to Alice
24 years just waitin’ for a chance
To tell her how I feel and maybe get a second glance
Now I gotta get used to not living next door to Alice
We grew up together, two kids in the park
Carved out initials deep in the bark, me and Alice
Now she walks through the door with her head held high
Just for a moment I caught her eye
As the big limousine pulled slowly out of Alice’s drive
Oh, I don’t know why she’s leaving, or where she’s gonna go
I guess she’s got her reasons, but I just don’t wanna know
‘Cause for 24 years I’ve been living next door to Alice
24 years just waitin’ for a chance
To tell her how I feel and maybe get a second glance
Now I gotta get used to not living next door to Alice
Sally called back, and asked how I felt
She said, “I know how to help, get over Alice”
She said, “Alice is gone, but I’m still here
You know I’ve been waiting 24 years”
And the big limousine disappeared
I don’t know why she’s leaving, or where she’s gonna go
I guess she’s got her reasons, but I just don’t wanna know
‘Cause for 24 years I’ve been living next door to Alice
24 years just waitin’ for a chance
To tell her how I feel and maybe get a second glance
But I’ll never get used to not living next door to Alice
Though I’ll never get used to not living next door to Alice