Heaven 17 is an English synth-pop band that emerged in the late 1970s and quickly became one of the most influential acts of the genre. Formed in Sheffield in 1980, the band is composed of Glenn Gregory on vocals and Martyn Ware and Ian Craig Marsh on synthesizers. Known for their innovative and experimental approach to electronic music, Heaven 17 has produced a discography that has stood the test of time and remains highly regarded by fans and critics alike.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the 10 best Heaven 17 songs of all time. From their early hits such as “Temptation” and “Let Me Go” to their later, more experimental works like “Contenders” and “Penthouse and Pavement,” we will explore the band’s incredible evolution over the years. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the group, this list is sure to provide a fascinating insight into the legacy of one of the most innovative and influential synth-pop acts of all time.
1. And That’s No Lie
“And That’s No Lie” is a synth-pop masterpiece from Heaven 17’s 1985 album “How Men Are”. The song features a distinctive bassline and catchy chorus, with lead singer Glenn Gregory delivering a powerful vocal performance. Lyrically, the song touches on themes of trust, betrayal, and the search for truth in a world full of lies. The track showcases the band’s ability to blend danceable pop hooks with thought-provoking lyrics and demonstrates their continued evolution as artists. “And That’s No Lie” remains a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live performances to this day, showcasing the enduring appeal of Heaven 17’s innovative and influential sound.
2. Play to Win
“Play to Win” is an electrifying track from Heaven 17’s 1981 debut album “Penthouse and Pavement”. The song features a driving beat, pulsing synths, and an infectious chorus, with lead vocalist Glenn Gregory delivering an impassioned performance. Lyrically, the song encourages listeners to strive for success and not be afraid to take risks in pursuit of their goals. It reflects the band’s social and political consciousness and their commitment to using music as a vehicle for meaningful messages. “Play to Win” became a fan favorite and a staple of Heaven 17’s live performances, demonstrating their ability to combine danceable rhythms with intelligent lyrics. The track remains an iconic example of the band’s innovative sound and enduring appeal.
3. Sunset Now
“Sunset Now” is a standout track from Heaven 17’s 1984 album “How Men Are”. The song is driven by a hypnotic, danceable groove, with layers of synths and electronic percussion creating a rich sonic landscape. Lead singer Glenn Gregory’s smooth vocals glide over the instrumental backdrop, while the lyrics explore themes of alienation, disillusionment, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world. The song’s title is a metaphor for the fleeting nature of time and the transience of life, adding an extra layer of emotional depth to the track. “Sunset Now” showcases Heaven 17’s unique ability to combine infectious pop hooks with thoughtful, introspective lyrics, solidifying their status as one of the most innovative and influential synth-pop bands of their era.
4. Temptation
“Temptation” is perhaps one of Heaven 17’s most well-known and beloved tracks, and for good reason. Released in 1983 as a single from the album “The Luxury Gap”, the song features a driving bassline, catchy chorus, and Glenn Gregory’s powerful vocals. Lyrically, the song explores the concept of temptation and the struggle to resist its pull, with the refrain “Temptation, temptation, I can’t resist” becoming an iconic part of the track. The song’s infectious energy and danceable rhythm helped it become a huge hit, cementing Heaven 17’s status as one of the leading bands in the synth-pop genre. Even today, “Temptation” remains a timeless classic and a staple of dancefloors around the world.
5. This Is Mine
“This Is Mine” is a powerful track from Heaven 17’s 1985 album “How Men Are”. The song is built around a pulsing electronic beat and layers of atmospheric synths, with lead singer Glenn Gregory delivering a passionate vocal performance. The lyrics explore themes of individuality, personal power, and the struggle to assert oneself in a world that often seeks to stifle individual expression. The chorus, with its refrain of “This is mine, this is my time,” has become an anthem for those seeking to break free from societal constraints and embrace their true selves. “This Is Mine” showcases Heaven 17’s ability to combine thought-provoking lyrics with catchy pop hooks, creating a track that is both emotionally resonant and danceable.
6. (We Don’t Need This) Fascist Groove Thang
“(We Don’t Need This) Fascist Groove Thang” is a politically charged track from Heaven 17’s debut album “Penthouse and Pavement” released in 1981. The song features a driving dance beat, funk-influenced bassline, and a catchy chorus with Glenn Gregory’s distinctive vocals. Lyrically, the song is a scathing critique of right-wing politics, with references to Nazi Germany and other totalitarian regimes. The title itself is a play on words, as “fascist” refers not only to political ideology but also to a particular type of dance rhythm. The track reflects Heaven 17’s social and political consciousness, and their commitment to using music as a means of challenging the status quo. “(We Don’t Need This) Fascist Groove Thang” remains an iconic example of the band’s innovative sound and socially conscious lyrics.
7. Crushed by the Wheels of Industry
“Crushed by the Wheels of Industry” is a powerful track from Heaven 17’s 1983 album “The Luxury Gap”. The song features a driving beat, layered synths, and Glenn Gregory’s emotive vocals. The lyrics explore the harsh realities of the working world, with references to labor exploitation, inequality, and the struggle for survival. The chorus, with its refrain of “crushed by the wheels of industry,” is a stark reminder of the toll that capitalism and industrialization can take on individuals and society as a whole. “Crushed by the Wheels of Industry” showcases Heaven 17’s ability to tackle weighty social issues with intelligence and creativity, and their commitment to using music as a means of social commentary. The track remains a fan favorite and a testament to the band’s enduring legacy.
8. Let Him Go
“Let Him Go” is a standout track from Heaven 17’s 1982 album “The Luxury Gap”. The song features a driving beat, haunting synths, and Glenn Gregory’s soulful vocals. The lyrics tell the story of a woman trapped in an abusive relationship, urging her to find the strength to leave her tormentor behind. The chorus, with its refrain of “let him go, let him go, let him go,” is a powerful statement of empowerment and liberation. “Let Him Go” showcases Heaven 17’s ability to tackle difficult subject matter with sensitivity and empathy, and their commitment to using music as a means of inspiring social change. The track remains a fan favorite and a testament to the band’s lasting impact on the synth-pop genre.
9. Penthouse and Pavement
“Penthouse and Pavement” is the title track and opening song of Heaven 17’s debut album, released in 1981. The song features a catchy electronic beat, soaring synths, and Glenn Gregory’s smooth vocals. The lyrics are a scathing commentary on the class divide and the excesses of wealth and power, with references to consumerism, corporate greed, and political corruption. The title itself is a metaphor for the divide between the rich and poor, with the “penthouse” representing the elite and the “pavement” representing the working class. “Penthouse and Pavement” showcases Heaven 17’s ability to combine infectious pop hooks with meaningful social commentary, making it a defining track of the synth-pop genre and a classic example of the band’s innovative sound.
10. Come Live with Me
“Come Live with Me” is a romantic ballad from Heaven 17’s 1983 album “The Luxury Gap”. The song features a lush instrumental arrangement, with sweeping synths, gentle percussion, and Glenn Gregory’s tender vocals. The lyrics tell the story of a man longing for a woman’s love, urging her to take a chance on him and escape the mundane routine of everyday life. The chorus, with its refrain of “come live with me, heavenly angel,” is a poignant declaration of love and devotion. “Come Live with Me” showcases Heaven 17’s ability to craft emotional and introspective ballads that are just as powerful as their more upbeat tracks. The song remains a fan favorite and a testament to the band’s versatility and enduring appeal.
Darren Jamison is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
