"Europe - The Final Countdown" is a classic rock song released by the Swedish rock band Europe in 1986. Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Release and Success: "The Final Countdown" was released as the lead single from Europe's third studio album of the same name. It became an international success, reaching the top of the charts in 25 countries.
Chart Performance: The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It's Europe's most successful single and is often considered their signature song.
Iconic Keyboard Riff: One of the most recognizable elements of the song is the iconic keyboard riff played by Mic Michaeli. The riff is instantly recognizable and is a key part of the song's enduring popularity.
Influence and Covers: "The Final Countdown" has been widely covered and has appeared in various forms of popular culture, including movies, TV shows, and commercials. It remains a popular choice for sporting events and has been covered by numerous artists in different genres.
Album Artwork: The album cover features the artwork of artist Gottfried Helnwein, depicting the band members as robotic figures. The striking and futuristic artwork adds to the overall theme of the album.
Commercial Impact: The success of "The Final Countdown" contributed significantly to the commercial success of the album and helped Europe gain widespread recognition in the global music scene.
Cultural Impact: The song has become a cultural phenomenon, often associated with the 1980s rock era. Its enduring popularity is evident through its continued use in various forms of media and its frequent appearance in retrospective lists of the best rock songs of the '80s.