“Josie’s on a vacation far away…” If those lyrics came blasting out of your radio right now, there’s a good chance you know what the rest of the line to this popular song is. The bouncy, catchy tune is “Your Love” by The Outfield.
It's the fortieth anniversary of the Outfield's release of their first album, Play Deep (see what they did there?), in 1985. Their first single, the equally bouncy “Say It Isn’t So,” failed to make much of a dent in the pop music world, but their second, “Your Love,” did.
According to Bryan Reesman of American Songwriter, the song hit number six on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Forty years later, the song is still a fun sing-along tune for fans, new and old.
What is the meaning behind ‘Your Love” by The Outfield?
While fans have been singing along to this tune for decades - in the shower, in the car, etc. - it is surprising that many people don’t the meaning of the song. It is about a cheating booty call.
Josie’s on a vacation far away; come around and talk it over
So many things I want to say; you know I like my girls a little bit older
I just want to use your love tonight; I don’t want to lose your love tonight
Catchy, huh? Still not convinced?
You know I’d do anything for you; stay the night but keep it undercover
At this point, there can’t be much doubt about what is going on. His girlfriend (or wife) is out of town, and he wastes little time in calling someone else who he likes. Though the unknown woman comes over, you get the feeling she walks away without any shenanigans taking place.
As you’re leaving, please, would you close the door?
And don’t forget what I told ya:
Just ‘cause you're right, doesn’t mean I’m wrong
Another shoulder to cry on
Apparently, our mystery woman is able to diffuse the situation, but our forlorn cheater isn’t entirely convinced and wants the woman to keep an open mind in the future. While this particular situation seems to have been averted, there isn’t much chance of the survival of the guy’s relationship with Josie.
We have to assume Josie wises up fairly quickly upon her return, dumps Casanova, and finds someone more loyal and deserving of her attention.
Regardless of the subject matter, “Your Love” remains a catchy pop song you don’t want to turn off when it pops up on the radio or your playlist. Forty years later, we’re still singing along.