Turn and Walk Away

"Turn and Walk Away" by The Babys from their 1980 album On The Edge is a track that captures the band's knack for blending heartfelt lyrics with catchy rock melodies. In a rare interview snippet from a 1980s music magazine preserved on The Babys Archives, lead singer John Waite described the song as a reflection on fleeting relationships, inspired by a late-night conversation he overheard in a London pub. The song's driving rhythm and emotive vocals made it a fan favorite among Zoo Freaks, often cited in fan discussions on the Official The Babys Facebook page for its relatable storytelling. A 2014 post on the The Babys X account shared a throwback photo of the band recording On The Edge, noting that "Turn and Walk Away" was one of the first tracks completed, with guitarist Wally Stocker nailing his solo in a single take.

Another tidbit about "Turn and Walk Away" comes from a fan story shared in the The Babys Fan Group on Facebook. A longtime Zoo Freak recounted attending a 1980 concert where the band played an extended version of the song, with keyboardist Jonathan Cain (later of Journey fame) improvising a jazzy interlude that never made it to the studio version. Though no official interviews confirm this, the story has become lore among fans, often mentioned in comments on the band's Instagram. The song's enduring appeal is evident in a 2020 X post by the band, where they shared a fan-made lyric video for "Turn and Walk Away," sparking dozens of replies from fans reminiscing about blasting it on car radios in the '80s.

The Babys formed in London in 1974, born from the gritty pub rock scene. John Waite (vocals) and Mike Corby (guitar) started jamming together after meeting at a local gig, initially playing covers of classic rock and R&B tunes. As detailed on The Babys Archives, they recruited Wally Stocker (guitar) and Tony Brock (drums) to flesh out the lineup, with a vision to craft original songs that merged raw energy with polished melodies. Their big break came in 1976 when Chrysalis Records signed them after a standout performance at a London club, leading to their self-titled debut album in 1977. The band's early years were marked by relentless touring, building a loyal fanbase in the UK and US, which is still active today in groups like the The Babys Fan Group.

The band's official online presence includes their website, The Babys Archives, which serves as a treasure trove of history, photos, and updates. Fans can connect on the Official The Babys Facebook page, where the band occasionally posts about re-releases and throwback content. Their Instagram showcases vintage photos and fan art, while the X account engages with Zoo Freaks through polls and song snippets. For deeper fan interaction, the The Babys Fan Group on Facebook is a vibrant community where members share rare vinyl finds and concert memories. Though the band has been less active in recent years, these platforms keep the spirit of The Babys alive for their dedicated audience.