A Bold Anthem of Yearning and Desire
Ah, “Get It Up For Love”, a title that certainly raised a few eyebrows upon its release by the teen idol of the moment, David Cassidy. This song, which bravely hinted at the fervent desires of youth, charted respectably, reaching number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the autumn of 1973. It arrived at a time when Cassidy was at the peak of his fame, a veritable sensation thanks to his role as Keith Partridge in the beloved television show, The Partridge Family.
The story behind “Get It Up For Love” is quite interesting, as it marked a departure, albeit a subtle one, from the bubblegum pop image that had largely defined Cassidy’s earlier work. Penned by the talented Terry Branigan and Wes Farrell, the song was featured on Cassidy’s fourth solo album, the self-titled “David Cassidy”. This album aimed to showcase a more mature sound for the young artist, who was keen to be seen as more than just a teen heartthrob.
Lyrically, “Get It Up For Love” delves into the intense longing and anticipation of romantic connection. It speaks of a deep yearning for affection and physical closeness, capturing the raw emotions that accompany burgeoning love. The phrase itself, while somewhat direct, encapsulates the urgency and passion felt during those tender years. It wasn’t overtly explicit by any means, but it certainly carried a different weight than his earlier, more innocent hits.
Remember those days? The turntable spinning, the posters on the wall, and the radio constantly playing the soundtrack of our lives. David Cassidy was a significant part of that soundtrack for so many. His face graced countless magazine covers, and his concerts were filled with screaming fans, their hearts aflutter with every note he sang. “Get It Up For Love”, with its slightly edgier feel, resonated with an audience that was also growing up, experiencing the first pangs of deeper emotions and desires.
The musical arrangement of the song also contributed to its impact. It had a driving beat, a touch of rock sensibility, and layered harmonies that were characteristic of the early 1970s sound. It wasn’t the pure pop of “I Think I Love You”, but it retained a melodic charm that made it instantly appealing. You could hear the evolution in Cassidy’s voice too, a growing confidence and a hint of the man he was becoming.
Looking back, “Get It Up For Love” serves as a little time capsule, transporting us to an era of youthful exuberance and the sometimes awkward, always intense, journey of first love. It reminds us of a time when music held such a powerful sway over our emotions, shaping our experiences and creating memories that still linger. David Cassidy might have been a teen idol, but with songs like this, he also captured the spirit of a generation on the cusp of adulthood, grappling with feelings that were both exciting and new. It was a bold step for him, and for many of us listening, it was a reflection of our own journey of discovery. The song’s legacy lies not just in its chart success, but in its ability to evoke those feelings of longing and the hopeful anticipation of love that many of us experienced during those formative years.