In the novel Lost Horizon, Shangri-La is the mystical, hidden paradise of legend. In The Kinks song, it’s the name given to the humble home of Arthur, the main character in Ray Davies’ concept album/rock opera Arthur (Or The Decline and Fall of The British Empire). Written as the accompaniment for a TV movie that was never produced, Arthur still stands as one of The Kinks’ best works, and “Shangri-La” is the stand-out track from this album.
“Shangri-La” (Ray Davies) Copyright 1969 Davray Music Limited, Carlin Music Corp
— This show is one of the many great podcasts on the Pantheon Podcasts network. Check ’em all out!
Few bands left a legacy as deep and as lasting as The Ramones. You literally…
A teenage summertime love affair with a foreign exchange student was the inspiration for this…
Introducing a new segment of the podcast - "Creation & Evolution", where we explore songs…
Everybody knows "Baker Street"-- even if you don't know the artist's name or the song…
Jeff Beck was the guitar player's guitar player. Ask the great guitar players who they…
You may not know her name, but I guarantee you've heard her voice. When acts…
This website uses cookies.
View Comments
Brilliant! Loved your analysis and interpretation of a wonderful song. Thanks.
Thanks for your feedback, Geoff! The Kinks are one of my favorite bands and we've discussed them a couple of times on this show... and there's another Kinks episode coming up later this year!