Deep in the Motherlode

Genesis

About Deep in the Motherlode

"Deep in the Motherlode", also titled "Go West Young Man (In the Motherlode)", is a song performed and recorded by Genesis, with lyrics and music by Mike Rutherford. It was released as the sixth track on the group's 1978 album ... And Then There Were Three... under the title "Deep in the Motherlode". The song tells a fictional story of a man's travels during the Nevada gold rush and his family's urging for him to get as much gold as he can. A mother lode is a rich vein of valuable metal in a mine. The lyric "Go West, young man" is a reference to a famous phrase by Horace Greeley, who, in a 13 July 1865 editorial, advised: "Go West, young man, go West and grow up with the country." The song was performed live by Genesis on their 1978 tour and was used as a frequent opening number on their 1980 tour, but the song was not performed live thereafter. In Japan and North America it was released as a single, but re-titled as "Go West Young Man (In the Motherlode)". 


Year:
2007
5:15
104 

Lyrics currently unavailable…


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 »

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10 facts about this song

Album Origin
"Deep in the Motherlode" is from "Genesis's" 1978 album "And Then There Were Three". This album had a significance as it was the first album the band released as a three-piece band.
Lineup Change
This song is among the first batch of songs recorded after guitarist Steve Hackett's departure, leaving Tony Banks, Mike Rutherford, and Phil Collins as the remaining members.
Song Inspiration
Inspired by the California gold rush in the mid-19th century, the song refers to searching for gold deep in the "Motherlode," a term often used to reference a principled source of something sought after.
Structure & Style
"Deep in the Motherlode" is noted for its noticeable change in Genesis' musical style, showing a greater emphasis on pop arrangements.
Live Performances
Although not as popular as some other tracks, the song was performed live during their 1978 and 1980 tours. It was the opening track during these performances.
Album Theme
The song fits into the larger theme of "And Then There Were Three," which deals with various trials and tribulations of humanity, both historically and personally.
Songwriting
The song is credited to be written by Mike Rutherford. His style is noticeably different from the progressive, theatrical style of previous member Peter Gabriel.
Lyrics
The lyrics to "Deep in the Motherlode" are considered metaphorical, suggesting a journey to an uncertain but potentially rewarding destination.
Lesser-known Track
Despite the album's overall success, reaching as high as No.3 in the UK Album Charts and gaining Platinum status, "Deep in the Motherlode" remains a lesser-known track as it was never released as a single.
Unique Sound Elements
The song is noted for its heavy use of the ARP Quadra, an early analog synthesizer. It added a unique flair to the band's sound, starting a trend that they would continue throughout the 80s.

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