England Dan & John Ford Coley: “We’ll Never Have to Say Goodbye Again”
“We’ll Never Have to Say Goodbye Again” is one of those timeless ballads that perfectly encapsulates the soft rock sound of the late 1970s. Originally penned by songwriter Jeffrey Comanor, the song found its definitive interpretation in the hands of England Dan & John Ford Coley. Nineteen months after the song’s initial debut by its original artist, the duo released their cover, and it quickly became a significant hit, solidifying their place in the hearts of soft rock aficionados.
Released on February 17, 1978, as a single by Big Tree Records, “We’ll Never Have to Say Goodbye Again” was a prelude to the album Some Things Don’t Come Easy. Produced by Kyle Lehning, with engineering by Lehning, Marshall Morgan, and additional help from Tom Knox, this song was crafted with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring it would resonate with listeners both on the radio and on the album.
What makes this track stand out is its simplicity and emotional depth. The song’s narrative, about the yearning to hold on to a moment forever and the bittersweet realization that time inevitably moves forward, is something many listeners can relate to. The lyrics capture a universal longing, making it easy to understand why it resonated so deeply with audiences at the time of its release.
Billboard magazine noted the track’s “catchy chorus” and praised the “excellent vocal harmonizing” by England Dan & John Ford Coley. The harmonies between Dan Seals and John Ford Coley are, indeed, one of the defining features of this recording, adding a layer of warmth and sincerity to the already poignant lyrics. Their voices blend seamlessly, creating a sound that is both comforting and emotionally stirring.
Upon its release, “We’ll Never Have to Say Goodbye Again” quickly climbed the charts, peaking at No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of the duo’s most beloved songs. It also reached No. 1 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart, a testament to its widespread appeal among listeners who appreciated its soothing melody and heartfelt message.
Music critic Joe Viglione, in his review of the album Some Things Don’t Come Easy for AllMusic, referred to the track as “far and away the best song on the album,” noting its “radio-friendly” hook and instrumentation. Indeed, the song’s gentle acoustic guitar, soft piano, and understated rhythm section make it an easy listen, while its memorable chorus ensures it lingers in the mind long after the final notes have faded.
“We’ll Never Have to Say Goodbye Again” is more than just a song; it’s a snapshot of a moment in time, capturing the essence of a particular era in music when soft rock was at its peak. For fans of England Dan & John Ford Coley, this track remains one of the duo’s crowning achievements, a song that continues to evoke nostalgia and emotion with every listen.
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