Have you ever heard the song “Vacation” by The Go-Gos? If you have, you might be wondering who wrote this catchy tune that has been a staple of 80s pop music. Well, in this article, we will dive into the history of “Vacation” and uncover the mastermind behind its creation.
The Go-Gos: A Brief History
Before we get into the specifics of “Vacation,” let’s take a moment to talk about The Go-Gos. The all-female band formed in Los Angeles in 1978 and quickly became a sensation with their punk-influenced sound and upbeat energy. Their debut album, “Beauty and the Beat,” released in 1981, was a massive success and made them the first all-female band to top the Billboard 200 chart.
“Vacation”: The Song That Defined Summer
“Vacation” was released in 1982 as the lead single from The Go-Gos’ second album of the same name. It quickly became a hit, reaching number eight on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming one of their most recognizable songs.
So who wrote “Vacation”? The answer is two-fold. The music was written by guitarist Jane Wiedlin, while the lyrics were penned by bassist Kathy Valentine.
The Story Behind “Vacation”
According to interviews with Wiedlin and Valentine, “Vacation” was inspired by a trip they took together to Palm Springs, California. They were staying at a hotel that had a pool but no shade, so they had to drag lounge chairs under trees to stay out of the sun. This experience sparked the idea for “Vacation,” which is essentially an ode to taking time off and enjoying life.
The song’s catchy chorus – “vacation, all I ever wanted / vacation had to get away” – has become a beloved anthem for summertime fun. The upbeat tempo and cheerful melody perfectly capture the feeling of being on a carefree holiday.
The Legacy of “Vacation”
“Vacation” remains one of The Go-Gos’ most popular songs, and its influence can be heard in countless pop hits that have been released since. Its legacy has also been cemented in popular culture through its use in movies, TV shows, and commercials.
In conclusion, “Vacation” is a timeless classic that continues to capture the spirit of summer fun to this day. While Jane Wiedlin wrote the music and Kathy Valentine wrote the lyrics, it was truly a team effort by The Go-Gos that created this iconic song.