Left to My Own Devices

Pet Shop Boys

About Left to My Own Devices

"Left to My Own Devices" is a song recorded by Pet Shop Boys, released as the second single from their third studio album, Introspective. It was also the first track of the album. It is their 9th best-selling hit. The single fared better than the album's lead single, "Domino Dancing", charting three positions higher in the UK Singles Chart, at Number 4. It became the first track that Pet Shop Boys recorded with an orchestra, arranged by Richard Niles. Since its release, it has become a staple of Pet Shop Boys live performances.  


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I get out of bed at half past ten
Phone up a friend who's a party animal
Turn on the news and drink some tea 
Maybe if you're with me, we'll do some shopping

One day, I'll read or learn to drive a car
If you pass the test, you can beat the rest
But I don't like to compete, or talk street, street, street
I can pick up the best from the party animal

I could leave you, say goodbye
Or I could love you, if I try
And I could
And left to my own devices, I probably would

Pick up a brochure about the sun
Learn to ignore what the photographer saw
I was always told that you should join a club
Stick with the gang, if you want to belong

I was a lonely boy, no strength, no joy
In a world of my own at the back of the garden
I didn't want to compete, or play out on the street
For in a secret life I was a round head general

I could leave you, say goodbye
Or I could love you, if I try
And I could
And left to my own devices, I probably would
Left to my own devices, I probably would
Oh, I would

I was faced with a choice at a difficult age
Would I write a book? Or should I take to the stage?
But in the back of my head I heard distant feet
Che Guevara and De'bussy to a disco beat

It's not a crime when you look the way you do
The way I like to picture you
When I get home, it's late at night
I pour a drink and watch the fight

Turn off the TV, look at a book
Pick up the phone, fix some food
Maybe I'll sit up all night and day
Waiting for the minute I hear you say

I could leave you, say goodbye
Or I could love you, if I try
And I could
And left to my own devices, I probably would
Come on, baby, say goodbye
Or I could love you, if I try
And I could
And left to my own devices, I probably would
Left to my own devices, I probably would
(Come on baby)
Left to my own devices, I probably would

 Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer


Pet Shop Boys

Pet Shop Boys are an English electronic dance music duo, consisting of Neil Tennant, who provides main vocals, keyboards and occasional guitar, and Chris Lowe on keyboards. more »

7 fans

Written by: Christopher Lowe, Neil Tennant

Lyrics © Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Song Creation
"Left to My Own Devices" is a song recorded by renowned British duo, Pet Shop Boys. It was written by Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe, the duo themselves.
Release Information
The song was released as the second single from their third studio album, "Introspective," in November 1988.
Chart Performance
Despite its length, "Left to My Own Devices" peaked at number 4 on the UK Singles Chart, making it another top hit for the band.
Song Production
The song's production credits include the famous Trevor Horn, known for his work with artists like Robbie Williams, Tina Turner, and Seal.
Classical Influence
The song is known for its baroque elements. It begins with an instrumental intro in a baroque style, complete with a string section.
Musical Elements
The song integrates a variety of musical styles, including house music, orchestral arrangements, and even opera, making it a unique creation in the discography of Pet Shop Boys.
Album Perception
The album, "Introspective", which included "Left to My Own Devices", is considered one of Pet Shop Boys' most acclaimed albums, symbolizing the peak of their creativity and exhibiting a high level of sophistication in electronic music.
Song Content
The lyrics of the song describe the band's singer, Neil Tennant, fantasizing about various scenarios when left alone. The lyrics also draw upon his experiences and attitudes.
Popular Recognition
The song was recognized by the BBC as "one of Pet Shop Boys’ perfect pop songs", praising it for its literate, intelligent lyrics and emotive music.
Remix Versions
There are a number of remix versions of the song, including the Disco Mix, the Royal Piano Version, and the Device Mix, among many others.

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    "Left to My Own Devices Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 29 Mar. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/30610308/Pet+Shop+Boys/Left+to+My+Own+Devices>.

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    Left to My Own Devices

    5.1M
    23,246     732

    Top Hot 100 Songs 1989

    Billboard #84


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