Moonlighting

Leo Sayer's 'Moonlighting' tells the story of a young couple who decide to leave everything behind to be together. The song paints a vivid picture of their clandestine meetings at a Mexican discotheque, where they share intimate moments and plan their escape. The lyrics highlight their deep connection and the lengths they are willing to go to stay together, even if it means losing all their friends and the life they know. The term 'moonlighting' here symbolizes their secretive and daring plan to start anew, away from the prying eyes of society.

The narrative unfolds with meticulous details, such as the blue Morris van parked in an alley, resprayed by a friend to avoid detection. This van becomes their getaway vehicle, symbolizing their hope and determination to forge a new path together. The song captures the tension and excitement of their journey, with the woman taking cash from her building society and the man reassuring her that everything will be alright. Their escape is fraught with risk, but their love and commitment to each other give them the courage to proceed.

As they drive through the night, sharing the responsibility and the anxiety, the song reaches its climax. The couple is just ten miles away from Gretna, a town historically known for runaway weddings, symbolizing their imminent freedom and union. The lyrics convey a sense of urgency and fear, but also a strong belief in their love and the future they are building together. 'Moonlighting' is a poignant tale of love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of happiness against all odds, capturing the essence of youthful rebellion and the timeless quest for true love.