CHER - TAKE ME HOME

Released: January 1979

Charted:  US: #8 

"Take Me Home" is a disco song recorded by Cher for her fifteenth studio album, also titled "Take Me Home," released in 1979. Following commercial setbacks with her previous albums, Cher was advised to explore the disco genre. It was released as the lead single from the album in January 1979 by Casablanca Records, primarily on a 12-inch single format. The song was written by Michele Aller and Bob Esty, with Esty also serving as the producer. Michele Aller and Bob Esty collaborated on several songs for Cher during that era, including "Wasn't It Good" and "Hell On Wheels." The album gained attention for its cover art, featuring Cher in a striking and daring outfit that reflected her status as a fashion icon. The cover portrays Cher in a skimpy and provocative outfit, evoking the image of a warrior princess. 

After experiencing a string of commercial failures with her previous albums Cher sought to revive her music career. She visited Casablanca Records' headquarters with intentions to record rock and roll-tinged music, but Neil Bogart, the head of Casablanca Records, advised her to delve into disco music instead, suggesting that rock was not her forte. Initially reluctant due to her view of disco as superficial and not serious music, Cher eventually took Bogart's advice. Esty himself was skeptical at first but changed his mind after starting to work with Cher. He played her a demo of "Take Me Home," which she surprisingly liked. 

"Take Me Home" centers around the theme of a woman expressing her desire to be taken home by her lover, which is often interpreted as a metaphor for sexual intimacy. The lyrics are straightforward and direct, with Cher conveying her openness to a one-night affair: "Just a one-night affairWould be so fine". Unlike some disco songs that use euphemisms or innuendos to convey similar themes, Cher's lyrics are more explicit in expressing her desire. The song embraces the disco era's tendency to explore themes of nightlife, desire and liberation.

Cher's video showcases her charismatic stage presence and ability to captivate audiences through her visual performance, which was a hallmark of her career, particularly from her variety show days like The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour. In the video, Cher exudes confidence as she dances and performs in an elegant yet revealing dress, surrounded by a parade of well-dressed suitors. 

In 2001, British singer Sophie Ellis-Bextor covered "Take Me Home," giving it a fresh interpretation that resonated with contemporary audiences. Sophie Ellis-Bextor's version achieved significant success, reaching number 2 on the UK Singles Chart.