No Dancing

Elvis Costello · Elvis Costello Limited Edition Collector's Box Set - Amazon.Com E [2007]

Oh I know that she

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.