Soley, Soley: How Middle of the Road Proved the Critics Wrong

Released in 1971, “Soley, Soley” was one of Middle of the Road’s follow-up hits after their global breakthrough with “Chirpy Chirpy Cheep Cheep.” Written by Fernando Arbex, the Spanish songwriter behind Los Bravos’ “Black is Black,” the track combined Mediterranean flair with the band’s signature bubblegum pop sound.

While some critics dismissed the song as lightweight pop, it went on to defy expectations, climbing the charts across Europe. It reached No. 5 on the UK Singles Chart and became especially popular in countries like Germany and the Netherlands. Its sunny melody, catchy chorus, and playful energy made it a radio favorite, proving that Middle of the Road were more than just a one-hit wonder.

‘SOLEY, SOLEY’: THE SONG THAT DARED TO DEFY THE CRITICS

The beauty of “Soley, Soley” lies in its simplicity: a bright, joyful tune with singalong lyrics that captured the carefree spirit of the early 1970s. The song radiates warmth and optimism, and its infectious chorus still gets audiences singing along decades later.
“Soley, Soley” was produced by Fernando Arbex himself, giving it a distinctive Spanish pop flavor.

Middle of the Road performed the song on several European TV shows, where their vibrant outfits and upbeat style made them instant crowd-pleasers.

Despite mixed reviews from critics at the time, the song has endured as one of the band’s most beloved hits, often performed live at their concerts.

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