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Great Forgotten Songs #92 – Moody Blues “Question”

The Moody Blues

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Great Forgotten Songs #92 – Moody Blues “Question”

“Question” is a 1970 single by the English progressive rock band The Moody Blues. It was written by guitarist Justin Hayward, who provides lead vocals. “Question” was first released as a single in April 1970 and remains their second highest charting song, reaching number two and staying on the chart for 12 weeks.

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It was later featured as the lead track on the 1970 album A Question of Balance. The single also features the song “Candle of Life” on its B-side, which was from the Moody Blues’ previous album To Our Children’s Children’s Children.

Hear the song below:

Originally, the song itself was also to have been named “A Question of Balance,” but was shortened to “Question.” The lyrics of the chorus, “Why do we never get an answer, when we’re knocking at the door/ With a thousand million questions about hate and death and war?”, represented Hayward’s feelings and attitude toward the Vietnam War.

At the time, “Question” was a simple recording for the Moody Blues. Their previous album, To Our Children’s Children’s Children, featured songs which included many different sounds provided by overdubbing and double-tracking. Unfortunately, this made most of the songs on the album very difficult to perform live. For this reason, “Question” was recorded in one take, and did not need any overdubbing or double-tracking, making it easier for the Moody Blues to perform live. It was written in Open-C tuning (CGCGCE) and recorded (and usually performed live) on a 12-string acoustic guitar.

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I'm a Brazilian journalist who always loved Classic Rock and Heavy Metal music. That passion inspired me to create Rock and Roll Garage over 6 years ago. Music has always been a part of my life, helping me through tough times and being a support to celebrate the good ones. When I became a journalist, I knew I wanted to write about my passions. After graduating in journalism from the Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais, I pursued a postgraduate degree in digital communication at the same institution. The studies and experience in the field helped me improve the website and always bring the best of classic rock to the world! MTB: 0021377/MG

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