Who's behind the notes? Discover Tears for Fears: Architects of Synth-Pop and New Wave
"Tears for Fears" is a British pop band that achieved significant success during the 1980s. Their song "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" is one of their most iconic tracks, and there are several interesting facts about both the band and the song:
Formation of Tears for Fears: The band was formed in Bath, England, in 1981 by Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith. They had been friends since their teenage years and started as a mod-influenced band called "Graduate" before adopting the name "Tears for Fears."
Chart-Topping Success: "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" was released in 1985 as part of their album "Songs from the Big Chair." The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and became a massive international hit.
Lyrics with a Message: The song's lyrics touch on themes of power, control, and the desire for dominance. Despite its upbeat and catchy melody, the lyrics convey a sense of disillusionment with the world's state of affairs.
Iconic Music Video: The music video for "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" is memorable for its distinct imagery. It features Orzabal and Smith performing in a dimly lit room with maps of the world and a large spinning globe, highlighting the song's global theme.
Movie and TV Appearances: The song has been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials over the years, contributing to its enduring popularity. It's often used to evoke the nostalgic sounds of the 1980s.
Grammy Award: Tears for Fears received a Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 1986, in part due to the success of "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" and the "Songs from the Big Chair" album.
Cover Versions: The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including notable renditions by Lorde and Weezer. These covers have introduced the song to new generations of music enthusiasts.
Cultural Influence: "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" has been used in various forms of media, including video games, TV shows, and movies. It has become an enduring pop culture reference and is often associated with the 1980s.
Roland Orzabal's Inspirations: Roland Orzabal has cited a range of influences for the song, including the works of author Arthur Janov (known for his work on primal therapy) and the literature of William S. Burroughs. These influences can be heard in the song's lyrical content.
Continued Popularity: The song's popularity endures, and it remains a staple in the Tears for Fears live performances. The band has continued to tour and create music, ensuring that their legacy lives on.
"Everybody Wants to Rule the World" is not only one of Tears for Fears' most famous songs but also a significant piece of 1980s pop music history. Its thought-provoking lyrics and catchy melody have made it a timeless classic.