Saying Farewell with a Rock and Roll Heartache: The Enduring Charm of Slade’s “Gudbuy T’Jane”
This spirited anthem, with its driving beat and Noddy Holder’s unmistakable vocals, captures the bittersweet moment of parting from a captivating, perhaps slightly eccentric, woman named Jane. Released in the autumn of 1972, “Gudbuy T’Jane” swiftly climbed the charts, nestling at Number 2 in the UK and demonstrating Slade’s unwavering grip on the pop-rock scene. It was the follow-up single to their chart-topping sensation, “Mama Weer All Crazee Now,” and further cemented their status as glam rock titans.
The genesis of “Gudbuy T’Jane” is rather intriguing, a blend of reality and the band’s characteristic flair for the unexpected. Legend has it that the inspiration for Jane struck bassist Jim Lea during the band’s American tour. One account suggests she was a rather memorable radio DJ in San Francisco, while another tale, recounted by Noddy Holder himself, paints Jane as a co-host of a somewhat unusual television show the band encountered. Apparently, Jane had a penchant for platform boots, which she called her “’40s trip boots,” and after an incident where she lost them, the band couldn’t resist a bit of teasing. Jane, not one to take it lying down, reportedly gave Holder a playful kick, an event immortalized in the line, “Got a kick from her ’40s trip boots.” Regardless of the precise details, it’s clear that Jane was a character who left a lasting impression on the band. Lea even finished writing the song in a rather unconventional location – an airplane toilet on his flight back home!
Musically, “Gudbuy T’Jane” is pure Slade magic. The infectious, stomping rhythm, driven by Don Powell’s powerful drumming and Lea’s melodic bassline, provides the perfect foundation for Dave Hill’s distinctive guitar riffs and Holder’s raucous yet endearing vocal delivery. The song’s energy is undeniable, a vibrant blend of hard rock and catchy pop sensibilities that defined the glam rock era. It’s a track that makes you want to tap your feet and maybe even pump your fist in the air, a feeling many of us remember so vividly from those exciting times.
Beyond the energetic surface, the lyrics hint at a complex relationship with Jane. She’s described as a “dark horse” and “painted up like a fancy young man,” suggesting an unconventional and perhaps enigmatic personality. Yet, there’s an undeniable affection in the repeated farewell, “Gudbuy T’Jane, goodbye to Jane.” It’s not a bitter parting, but rather a fond farewell to someone who clearly made an impact. The line “She’s a queen, can’t you see what I mean?” further elevates Jane’s status, hinting at a captivating and perhaps even formidable presence. The song captures that familiar feeling of saying goodbye to someone special, knowing that their unique spirit will linger in your memory.
“Gudbuy T’Jane” was featured on Slade’s hugely successful third studio album, “Slayed?”, released in November 1972. This album, brimming with anthems like “Mama Weer All Crazee Now” and later “Merry Xmas Everybody,” solidified Slade’s place at the forefront of British rock. While “Gudbuy T’Jane” didn’t reach the coveted top spot in the UK singles chart, held off by Chuck Berry’s “My Ding-a-Ling” at the time, its enduring popularity speaks volumes about its quality and impact. It even fared well in the United States, reaching Number 68, making it one of Slade’s most successful singles across the pond.
Listening to “Gudbuy T’Jane” today is like stepping back into a time of vibrant colours, bold fashion, and music that was unashamedly loud and fun. It’s a reminder of the energy and excitement of the early 1970s, a period when Slade were kings of the charts and their music provided the soundtrack to countless memories. This song, with its blend of rock and roll swagger and a touch of poignant farewell, continues to resonate with those who remember its initial release and still holds a timeless appeal for new generations discovering the magic of Slade. So, let the music play, and let the memories of those exciting times flood back as we bid a fond “gudbuy” to Jane, a character forever immortalized in this classic track.