"Escape (The Piña Colada Song)" is a popular song written and performed by Rupert Holmes. Released in 1979, the song became one of the most well-known hits of the late 1970s. Here are some interesting facts about the song and its creator:
Inspiration for the Song: Rupert Holmes was inspired to write the song after reading a personal ad in the newspaper. The ad caught his attention with the lines "If you like piña coladas, and getting caught in the rain." This inspired him to create a story about a man who responds to such an ad, only to discover that it was placed by his current partner.
Double Twist Ending: The song is known for its clever and unexpected twist at the end. The man in the song responds to the personal ad, arranges to meet the person, and discovers that it's his own partner. The song's twist gives it a unique and memorable quality.
Chart Success: "Escape" became a chart-topping hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States in 1979. It also achieved success in other countries, making it a global phenomenon.
Grammy Award: Rupert Holmes won a Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance for "Escape (The Piña Colada Song)" in 1980.
Album Success: The song was part of Rupert Holmes' album "Partners in Crime," which also included other notable tracks. The success of the album was largely attributed to the popularity of "Escape."
Enduring Popularity: Despite being released decades ago, "Escape (The Piña Colada Song)" continues to be popular and is often featured in movies, TV shows, and commercials. Its catchy melody and memorable lyrics have contributed to its enduring appeal.
Holmes' Diverse Career: While Rupert Holmes is best known for "Escape," he has had a diverse career as a singer, songwriter, and playwright. In addition to his music career, Holmes has worked on Broadway and has won Tony Awards for his work in musical theater.
"Escape (The Piña Colada Song)" remains a classic example of pop storytelling and continues to be enjoyed by audiences around the world.