Only Time Will Tell (Live 1990)

Hey there, Zoo Freaks, the Zoo Crew is spinning a classic for you today with Asia's "Only Time Will Tell (Live 1990)"! This track, originally from their 1982 debut album, is a gem packed with emotional depth and intriguing history. Written by John Wetton and Geoff Downes, the song tells the story of a man realizing his lover never truly loved him, using him for her own gain. Wetton, in a Songfacts interview, shared that the lyrics stem from a vivid personal experience, where he confidently asserts to his ex that her new partner doesn't measure up, warning, "You're making a big mistake." Some listeners interpreted the song's sharp lyrical tone as misogynistic, but Wetton countered that it continues a dialogue from "Heat of the Moment," where he owns up to past mistakes, showing a reflective side to the narrative.

The music video for "Only Time Will Tell" is a quirky piece of early MTV history, directed by Kevin Godley and Lol Creme. It features the band performing inside TV screens, a nod to the era's fascination with media and technology. But the real head-scratcher is the gymnast tumbling in slow motion throughout the video. In a Songfacts chat, Godley admitted there was no deep meaning behind it—just a visual experiment that "felt interesting." Fun fact: this gymnast was likely the first to grace MTV, making it a peculiar milestone in music video history! The song's creation also has a poignant backstory. Wetton began working on it in late 1980 while with Wishbone Ash, staying late after sessions at Criteria Studios in Miami. The murder of his hero, John Lennon, during this period left a profound mark, infusing the songwriting process with raw emotion.

Now, let’s dive into how Asia came to be. Formed in 1981, Asia is a progressive rock supergroup born from the ashes of some of the genre's heavyweights. John Wetton (bassist/vocalist from King Crimson), Carl Palmer (drummer from Emerson, Lake & Palmer), Steve Howe (guitarist from Yes), and Geoff Downes (keyboardist from The Buggles and Yes) joined forces after various band dissolutions and industry shifts. Wetton and Howe had crossed paths in earlier projects, and their shared vision for a new sound led to jamming sessions in London. Downes, fresh from his "Video Killed the Radio Star" fame with The Buggles, brought a pop sensibility, while Palmer’s powerhouse drumming grounded the mix. Their manager, Brian Lane, saw the potential in uniting these virtuosos, and after some lineup tweaks, Asia signed with Geffen Records. Their debut album, released in 1982, skyrocketed to #1 in the U.S. and Canada, driven by hits like "Heat of the Moment" and, of course, "Only Time Will Tell."

Asia’s journey wasn’t without bumps. The band faced internal tensions and lineup changes over the years, but their core sound—blending prog-rock complexity with radio-friendly hooks—kept fans hooked. Wetton’s soulful vocals and the band’s knack for lush, cinematic arrangements defined their early success. Sadly, Wetton passed away in 2017, but the band continues to tour and create, with Billy Sherwood stepping in as a key member. You can keep up with Asia’s latest gigs and releases on their official website, catch their updates on Facebook, follow their visual throwbacks on Instagram, and join the conversation on X. For the Zoo Freaks who want to connect with fellow fans, check out the Asia Fan Club on Facebook, a vibrant community sharing memories, rare photos, and tour stories. Another great spot is Bondegezou, a fan site with detailed discographies and updates on Asia and related projects.