Drifting into a Dreamy Embrace: Brian Connolly‘s “Hypnotized”
Ah, “Hypnotized”, a song that gently pulls you into a state of blissful surrender, much like its very title suggests. Released in the autumn of 1982, this captivating single from the former lead singer of Sweet, Brian Connolly, offered a more mellow and introspective side to an artist previously known for his glam rock energy. While it didn’t set the charts ablaze in the same way as his earlier hits with Sweet, peaking at a modest position of 69 on the UK Singles Chart, “Hypnotized” nonetheless resonated deeply with a segment of listeners who appreciated its understated charm and heartfelt delivery.
The story behind “Hypnotized” is intertwined with Connolly‘s post-Sweet career, a period marked by both creative exploration and personal challenges. After his departure from the iconic band in 1979, Connolly embarked on a solo journey, seeking to carve out a new musical identity. “Hypnotized”, co-written by Connolly himself along with Chris Garland, showcased a departure from the high-octane rock anthems that had defined his past. Instead, it embraced a softer, more melodic approach, hinting at a vulnerability that perhaps hadn’t been as readily apparent in his earlier work. This shift in sound reflected a desire to explore different facets of his artistry and connect with audiences on a more personal level.
Lyrically, “Hypnotized” speaks of being completely captivated by another person, falling under their enchanting spell. The words paint a picture of being utterly mesmerized, losing oneself in the presence of someone so alluring that resistance becomes futile. Phrases like “I’m hypnotized by the look in your eyes” and “I’m caught in a dream, it all seems so real” evoke a sense of romantic enthrallment, a feeling many of us have experienced at some point in our lives. It’s that intoxicating moment when connection transcends the ordinary, leaving you feeling utterly spellbound. The gentle melody and Connolly‘s earnest vocal delivery further amplify this feeling of being swept away by emotion.
While “Hypnotized” might not be as widely remembered as Sweet‘s chart-toppers like “Block Buster!” or “Ballroom Blitz”, it holds a unique place in Brian Connolly‘s discography. It offers a glimpse into his evolving musical sensibilities and his ability to convey heartfelt emotion through a more nuanced sound. For those who followed his career beyond the glam rock era, “Hypnotized” serves as a poignant reminder of his talent and versatility. It’s a song that invites you to close your eyes, drift away, and perhaps recall a time when you too felt utterly and beautifully hypnotized by someone special. The single was backed by the track “Hold On,” further showcasing the slightly different musical direction Connolly was exploring at the time. Although a full album from this period didn’t achieve significant commercial success, tracks like “Hypnotized” stand as testament to Brian Connolly‘s enduring musical spirit and his willingness to explore new sonic landscapes. It’s a gentle echo from a time when music often took its time, allowing emotions to unfold with a tender grace.