No Dancing
Elvis Costello · Elvis Costello Limited Edition Collector's Box Set - Amazon.Com E [2007]
Has made a fool of him
Like girls have done so many nights before
Time and time again
Life is so strange
I don't know why
But somebody, somebody has to cry
There's gonna be no dancing when they get home
There's gonna be no dancing
There's gonna be no dancing
There's gonna be no dancing when they get home
Now he's telling her
Every little thing he's done
Once he glanced at the jackets of some paperbacks
Now he's read every one
He's such a drag
He's not insane
It's just that everybody
Has to feel his pain
There's gonna be no dancing when they get home
He's getting down on his knees
He finds that the girl is not so easy to please
Oh oh, after all, his nights were just a paper striptease
She's caught it like some disease
If he says no dancing
There's gonna be no dancing
There's gonna be no dancing on my own
She can't even speak to him
He can't face her now
He says "Even though I wanna shake your hand
All I ever do is bow.
So now you see
How can it be.
Why can't you give me anythin' but sympathy?"
There's gonna be no dancing
There's gonna be no dancing
There's gonna be no dancing
There's gonna be no dancing
There's gonna be no dancing on my own
No Dancing
No Dancing stands as a defining track from Elvis Costello's early punk-influenced period, showcasing his sharp lyrical wit and energetic delivery. Originally recorded for his debut album, the song captures the restless spirit of the late 1970s New Wave movement. Costello's distinctive vocal style blends sarcasm with genuine emotion, creating a sound that remains instantly recognizable across his extensive discography. The recording features tight, driving instrumentation that underscores the song's themes of social observation and youthful defiance. As part of a celebrated body of work, this track highlights Costello's ability to craft concise, memorable pop songs that resonate with listeners decades after their initial release. It remains a staple in discussions regarding his significant contribution to modern rock and new wave music.

