About the song
“Please Tell Me Why” by The Dave Clark Five is a standout track that captures the spirit of 1960s British pop music. Released in 1964 during the peak of the British Invasion, this song exemplifies the infectious energy and heartfelt emotion that defined the era. The Dave Clark Five, known for their unique blend of rock and roll with melodic charm, showcased their talent in crafting songs that resonated with audiences on both sides of the Atlantic. “Please Tell Me Why” was released as part of the band’s 1964 album American Tour. Despite its title, the album was not tied to an actual tour in the United States but was instead named to appeal to the growing American fanbase of the band. By 1964, The Dave Clark Five were already established as one of the leading acts of the British Invasion, second only to The Beatles in terms of popularity. This song was a testament to their ability to create compelling music that combined driving beats with emotionally charged lyrics.At its heart, “Please Tell Me Why” is a song about longing, confusion, and heartbreak. The lyrics delve into the narrator’s feelings of despair as they grapple with the loss of a relationship and search for answers: “Please tell me why / You made me cry / I gave you everything / But you threw it all away.” These simple yet poignant lines capture the universal experience of love and loss, making the song deeply relatable.
What sets this track apart is its dynamic instrumentation and vocal delivery. The powerful drumbeat—a hallmark of The Dave Clark Five’s sound—drives the song forward, while Mike Smith’s commanding vocals convey both vulnerability and intensity. The harmonized backing vocals add an additional layer of emotional resonance, creating a lush, full sound that elevates the song’s impact.
At its heart, “Please Tell Me Why” is a song about longing, confusion, and heartbreak. The lyrics delve into the narrator’s feelings of despair as they grapple with the loss of a relationship and search for answers: “Please tell me why / You made me cry / I gave you everything / But you threw it all away.” These simple yet poignant lines capture the universal experience of love and loss, making the song deeply relatable.
What sets this track apart is its dynamic instrumentation and vocal delivery. The powerful drumbeat—a hallmark of The Dave Clark Five’s sound—drives the song forward, while Mike Smith’s commanding vocals convey both vulnerability and intensity. The harmonized backing vocals add an additional layer of emotional resonance, creating a lush, full sound that elevates the song’s impact.
During the 1960s, the British Invasion was not just a musical phenomenon but also a cultural shift. Bands like The Dave Clark Five brought fresh energy and style to the music scene, captivating audiences worldwide. While The Beatles often stole the spotlight, The Dave Clark Five carved out their niche with their distinct sound and approachable lyrics, which spoke directly to the hopes and heartbreaks of young listeners.
“Please Tell Me Why” was emblematic of this era, reflecting the emotional vulnerability that many teenagers and young adults felt in their relationships. The band’s clean-cut image and polished performances made them accessible, while their music carried enough edge to feel exciting and contemporary.
Although The Dave Clark Five eventually disbanded in 1970, their music has left an indelible mark on rock history. Songs like “Please Tell Me Why” are a reminder of their ability to craft timeless melodies that continue to resonate with listeners decades later. The band’s influence can be heard in subsequent generations of pop and rock artists, and their role in shaping the British Invasion remains a point of pride in music history.
For fans of 1960s music, “Please Tell Me Why” is a gem that encapsulates the charm and emotional intensity of the era. It’s a song that invites listeners to reminisce about a time when music was raw, heartfelt, and unfiltered—a perfect example of why The Dave Clark Five remains beloved by fans of classic rock and roll.
Video
Lyrics
PLEASE TELL ME WHYThe Dave Clark Five(Dave Clark / Mike Smith)I don’t know why she won’t love meLord, please tell me whyMaybe it’s that she don’t love meDon’t count on it please, she’s shyIf she’s shy then I’ll understandI’ll make the first move and hold her handBut if I’m wrong then I’ll be madLa-da-da-da-daI’ve been tryin’ oh so hardBut she don’t seem to noticeI sit next to her in classBut she can’t see my motiveDo you think she has a boyIf she has then I’m done‘Cause if he catches me with herI think I’ll have to runIf she’s passive she’ll understandI’ll value my love but not in her handsBut if I’m wrong then I’ll be madLa-da-da-da-daLa-da-da-da-daLa-da-da-da-da