THE 1000 BEST SONGS IN THE WORLD EVER.

755-The Waterboys-The Whole of the Moon.

1985-Number 26 single, when reissued in 1991 it peaked at Number 3.

Best Bit-At 3.46.With over 70 musicians having been either official members, or performing live with the band at sometime, The Waterboys are probably the biggest band in the world ever. Founding member Mike Scott has said,’We’ve had more members I believe than any other band in Rock history’. He has stated that the nearest challengers are Santana, and The Fall.

The Waterboys were formed in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1982 by Mike Scott, they are still active with Scott being the bands one constant,because of the large turnover of membership they have explored many genres of music, including ‘Folk,’ Celtic,’ and ‘Alternative Rock.’ Artists who have played under The Waterboys banner over the years include, Steve Wickham (1985-1990, and 2013, to present,) Karl Wallinger (1982-1985,) Eddie Reader (1984,) Guy Chambers (1985-1986,) Sharon Shannon (1989-1990 and 2004,) Ian McNabb (2001-2002,) and Roddy Lorimer (1983-1990 and 2007.)

The Whole of the Moon’ was written by Mike Scott. The song is a tribute to inspirational figures in Scott’s life, but not one particular person. In each line the singer describes his own perspective, and immediately contrasts it with that of the songs subject, summarising the difference with ‘I saw the crescent/ you saw the whole of the moon.’ Scott has stated that some of his inspirations for the song include the writers C.S.Lewis, and Mark Helprin, and also the musicians Jimi Hendrix, and Syd Barrett, who ‘burned out very quickly.’

‘I pictured a rainbow, you held it in your hands. I had flashes, but you saw the plan.’