Album Info
| Artist: | Village People |
| Album: | Go West |
| Released: | Australia & New Zealand, 1979 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | In The Navy | 6:05 |
| A2 | Go West | 4:10 |
| A3 | Citizens Of The World | 5:40 |
| B1 | I Wanna Shake Your Hand | 4:41 |
| B2 | Get Away Holiday | 6:05 |
| B3 | Manhattan Woman | 5:14 |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid cardboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship in stock vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
"Go West," the fourth studio album by the Village People, was released on March 26, 1979. Known for their flamboyant costumes and catchy disco hits, the Village People were a cultural phenomenon in the late 1970s, and "Go West" is a testament to their enduring appeal. The album is notable for its title track, "Go West," and the iconic "In the Navy," both of which have left a lasting impact on pop culture.
The album opens with "In the Navy," a track that became one of the Village People's most successful singles. It reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and was certified Gold by the RIAA. The song's catchy chorus and upbeat tempo made it a favorite on dance floors worldwide. Interestingly, "In the Navy" was used in a recruitment campaign by the United States Navy, although the partnership was short-lived due to the band's campy image.
"Go West," the album's title track, is another standout. While it didn't achieve the same commercial success as "In the Navy" upon its initial release, it gained renewed popularity in the 1990s when it was covered by the Pet Shop Boys. The song's themes of hope and new beginnings, combined with its anthemic melody, have made it a timeless classic.
The album also includes tracks like "Citizens of the World" and "I Wanna Shake Your Hand," which, while not as commercially successful as the singles, showcase the Village People's signature style of infectious disco beats and playful lyrics. The band's ability to blend humor with social commentary is evident throughout the album, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.
"Go West" was released during the height of the disco era, a time when the genre was both celebrated and criticized. The Village People, with their exaggerated personas and catchy tunes, became symbols of the disco movement. Their music, including the tracks on "Go West," played a significant role in bringing disco to mainstream audiences and breaking down barriers related to gender and sexuality.
Critically, "Go West" received mixed reviews upon its release. Some critics praised the album for its energetic tracks and the band's ability to create music that was both fun and meaningful. Others, however, viewed the Village People as a novelty act, focusing more on their image than their musical talent. Despite this, the album's enduring popularity and the success of its singles have cemented its place in music history.
The cultural significance of "Go West" extends beyond its music. The Village People were pioneers in representing LGBTQ+ culture in the mainstream music industry. Their flamboyant costumes and campy performances challenged traditional norms and provided visibility to marginalized communities. "Go West," with its themes of exploration and new beginnings, can be seen as a metaphor for the journey towards acceptance and equality.
In summary, "Go West" by the Village People is a quintessential disco album that captures the spirit of the late 1970s. With standout tracks like "In the Navy" and "Go West," the album showcases the band's ability to create music that is both entertaining and culturally significant. While it may have received mixed reviews from critics, its impact on pop culture and its role in the disco movement are undeniable. The Village People, through albums like "Go West," have left a lasting legacy that continues to resonate with audiences today.
