Introduction
“Going Back” is a song by Phil Collins, released in 2010 as part of his album Going Back. The album is a tribute to the Motown sound and features Collins covering a selection of classic soul and R&B tracks from the 1960s, including songs originally recorded by artists like The Supremes, The Temptations, and Marvin Gaye. “Going Back,” however, stands out as an original composition, written by Collins himself.
The song reflects Collins’ deep love for the Motown genre, which influenced much of his musical development. In “Going Back,” Collins sings about returning to the music and the spirit of his youth, reconnecting with the sounds that shaped him as an artist. The lyrics express a sense of nostalgia, with Collins reflecting on his personal connection to the music of the 1960s, as well as the desire to revisit and honor that period in his own way.
“Going Back” also marks a return for Collins to a more soulful, upbeat sound, after a period of focusing on ballads and introspective music in his solo career. The track is a vibrant, groove-filled number with lush orchestration, incorporating the Motown-inspired rhythms and melodies that defined the era. It captures the energy and joy of the music that Collins so admired.
While the Going Back album received mixed reviews, “Going Back” as a song was appreciated for its sincerity and homage to the golden age of soul music. The track is a testament to Collins’ versatility as an artist, showcasing his ability to merge his own style with the influences of the past, paying tribute to a genre that had a lasting impact on his musical journey.