Behind the Lines

Genesis

About Behind the Lines

"Behind the Lines" is a song by the English progressive rock band Genesis, from their 1980 album Duke. The group's drummer and vocalist Phil Collins released a re-recorded version on his first solo album Face Value in February 1981.


Year:
1980
5:31
135 
#1

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I held the book so tightly in my hands,
I saw your picture, heard you call my name
There was something strange, I could not look away
I wanted to be there, I wanted to go

You gave me no warning
You gave no reason
But I was with you
Right by your side
Just give me the strength, and I will help you
And they can try their hardest, cos they don't frighten me

It is written in the book

It is hotter than I've known before, but I feel so cold, and I don't
know why
But if the fire within your heart can beat the storm
Then I really believe, you could make it right

Ooh the time has come now
We must show our feelings
But I'm looking right through you
And your heart is empty

Whatever happened to you it's too late to change now
There's nowhere you can run to, no place to hide
Ah you let me down!

...but wait a minute, I don't understand
It's getting stronger, so grab my hand
Don't wanna leave you, don't wanna go
But I'm losing all control
Can't you see me? I'm slipping away
I can only stay if you've the will to keep me here

It is written in the book

Oh so many times since I've read those words
Just waiting to see you, can you see me?

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Genesis

Genesis are an English rock band that formed in 1967. The band currently consists of its three longest-tenured members - Tony Banks (keyboards) and Mike Rutherford (bass, guitar), who were founder members; and Phil Collins (vocals, drums), who first joined in 1970. Past members Peter Gabriel (vocals, flute), Steve Hackett (guitar) and Anthony Phillips (guitar), also played major roles in the band in its early years. Genesis are among the top 30 highest-selling recording artists of all time, with approximately 150 million albums sold worldwide. more »

5 fans

Written by: MICHAEL RUTHERFORD, PHIL COLLINS, TONY BANKS

Lyrics © CONCORD MUSIC PUBLISHING LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


13 facts about this song

Song Composition
"Behind the Lines" is a song by the English progressive rock band Genesis. It was included in their 1980 album "Duke."
Individual Performance
After its genesis version, Phil Collins, the band's drummer and lead vocalist, re-recorded the song for his 1981 solo album "Face Value."
Collaboration
"Behind the Lines" is the only song by Genesis that Collins chose to re-record as a solo artist.
Song Position
In the Duke album, it is the opening track, designed to set the tone for the rest of the album.
Single Release
As an individual track, it was initially not released as a single, but it gained popularity after Collins released his version.
Style Difference
Even though the song is the same, Collins' solo rendition is quite different from the original. The Genesis version is more progressive rock, while Collins' solo version is a more upbeat pop version.
Awards and recognition
The song did not chart remarkably well, but it is often lauded by fans and critics as one of the standout tracks on both the "Duke" album and Collins' "Face Value."
Live Performances
The Genesis version of "Behind the Lines" was frequently performed live during the band's concert tours.
Unique Features
Collins' version removes the extended instrumental intro and outro sections, focusing more on the central melody and lyrics of the song.
Album Success
The "Duke" album became Genesis' first number one album in the UK. It also broke into the top 10 in the U.S., making the song "Behind the Lines" better known to a broader audience.
Behind the Lines" Influence
The song's easy blend of rock and pop elements can be seen as a precursor to Collins' later solo work, also influencing many drummers and musicians in the pop and rock genre.
Band History
"Behind the Lines" was written during a transitional period for Genesis and Collins. This time saw Collins stepping to the forefront as the band's lead singer following the departure of former frontman Peter Gabriel.
Co-Authors
The song was written by Tony Banks, Phil Collins, and Mike Rutherford, who were the remaining members of Genesis after the departure of guitarist Steve Hackett.

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