A Raw and Resilient Anthem of Enduring Love
Ah, the early 70s. A time of flared trousers, platform boots, and a musical landscape that was as vibrant as it was diverse. And right at the heart of that glorious ruckus, stomping their way into our hearts with a joyful abandon, was a band called Slade. Now, for those of us who remember those days, the name Slade conjures up images of glitter-drenched stages, singalongs that could shake the foundations of any venue, and a raw energy that was utterly infectious. While they were perhaps best known for their undeniable Christmas anthem and a string of boisterous hits that topped the charts with remarkable regularity, there was a deeper cut, a poignant declaration nestled within their discography that truly spoke to the soul: “I Won’t Let It ‘Appen Agen.”
Released in 1973, a year that saw Slade at the absolute zenith of their powers, this track wasn’t one of their typical chart-toppers. Indeed, it wasn’t released as a standalone single. Instead, it was a standout track from their seminal album, “Slayed?”, an album that itself reached the dizzying heights of number one on the UK Albums Chart. For many, “Slayed?” represented the band’s artistic and commercial peak, showcasing their evolution from a hard-rocking outfit to master craftsmen of catchy, emotionally resonant rock anthems. While the album spawned colossal hits like “Mama Weer All Crazee Now” and “Gudbuy T’Jane,” it’s in the quieter moments, the more introspective tracks like “I Won’t Let It ‘Appen Agen,” that we find the true heart of Slade. It may not have occupied a prominent spot on the singles charts, but for those who truly delved into the album, it left an indelible mark, a quiet but powerful testament to enduring commitment.
The story behind this particular song, like so many of Slade‘s compositions, is rooted in the relatable human experience. Written by the powerhouse songwriting duo of Noddy Holder and Jim Lea, the track is a heartfelt promise, a solemn vow from one person to another that they will not repeat past mistakes. It speaks of a deep regret for hurts inflicted, perhaps through negligence or thoughtlessness, and a fervent desire to make amends and protect the relationship from further damage. It’s a testament to the idea that love, true love, isn’t always smooth sailing. There are storms, there are missteps, but the commitment to weather those storms and learn from those missteps is what truly defines its strength. Imagine the scene: a moment of quiet reflection after a disagreement, the realization of error, and the sincere, almost desperate, plea for forgiveness and a chance to do better. That’s the emotional landscape this song paints so vividly.
The meaning of “I Won’t Let It ‘Appen Agen” resonates deeply with anyone who has ever navigated the complexities of a long-term relationship. It’s about accountability, certainly, but more than that, it’s about the unwavering desire to protect something precious. It’s about looking back at the past, acknowledging the imperfections, and moving forward with a renewed sense of purpose and dedication. The raw, almost guttural delivery from Noddy Holder, characteristic of his unique vocal style, imbues the lyrics with an undeniable sincerity. You can almost feel the weight of his promise, the genuine remorse, and the earnest commitment in every syllable. It’s not a polished, overly sentimental ballad; it’s a gritty, honest declaration, fitting perfectly with Slade‘s no-nonsense approach to rock and roll. It’s the kind of song that, even after all these years, can transport you back to a simpler time, to a younger you, perhaps remembering a similar moment of reckoning in your own life, a promise made, a vow renewed. And that, my friends, is the enduring power of a truly great song.