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ABC is an English new wave band that emerged in the early 1980s and quickly became one of the most influential and successful acts of their time. With their suave style and sophisticated sound, ABC helped to define the sound and style of new wave and inspired countless musicians around the world. Over the course of their career, they released a string of classic albums and songs that continue to be beloved by music fans of all ages.
In this article, we will be exploring the 10 best ABC songs of all time. These are the tracks that have defined the band’s sound and style, and that continue to be recognized as some of the greatest songs in the history of new wave. From early hits like “Poison Arrow” and “The Look of Love” to later classics like “When Smokey Sings” and “Be Near Me,” we will be taking a deep dive into ABC’s discography and exploring what makes these songs so special.
ABC’s music is not just about catchy hooks and clever lyrics; it’s also about the power of music to evoke emotion and create atmosphere. Their songs are filled with elegance and wit, and their influence can be heard in the work of countless new wave and synth-pop musicians today. Listening to ABC’s music is like taking a journey through the glamorous and sophisticated world of 1980s pop culture, and their legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and music lovers.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of ABC or just discovering their music for the first time, this article is sure to provide insights and appreciation for the band’s incredible body of work. So sit back, relax, and get ready to discover the 10 best ABC songs of all time.
1. The Look of Love (Part One)
“The Look of Love (Part One)” is a song by English new wave band ABC, originally released in 1982 on their album The Lexicon of Love. The song features a stylish, sophisticated sound, with a driving beat, lush strings, and smooth vocals from lead singer Martin Fry. The lyrics speak of the allure and mystery of romantic love, with lines like “When your girl has left you out on the pavement / Then your dreams fall apart at the seams.” The song’s polished sound and catchy chorus make it a standout track on the album, and it remains a classic of 80s pop music.
2. All of My Heart
“All of My Heart” is a ballad by the English new wave band ABC, released in 1982 as part of their album “The Lexicon of Love”. The song’s lush orchestration, soaring melody, and Martin Fry’s emotive vocals make it one of the band’s most iconic hits. The lyrics express a yearning for love and devotion, with lines like “I’m all out of hope, one more bad break could bring a fall.” The song’s dramatic arrangement and memorable chorus showcase the band’s ability to craft sophisticated and emotionally resonant pop songs. “All of My Heart” remains a fan favorite and a classic of the new wave era.
3. When Smokey Sings
“When Smokey Sings” is a song by English new wave band ABC, originally released in 1987 on their album Alphabet City. The song features a grooving, danceable sound, with a prominent beat and infectious horns. The lyrics pay homage to legendary Motown singer Smokey Robinson, with lines like “There’s no escape / From the sound of the crowd / And all that you need to know / Is that the world loves to hear / When Smokey sings.” The song’s upbeat sound and joyful celebration of music make it a standout track on the album, and it remains a fan favorite and dance floor classic.
4. Show Me
“Show Me” is a song by English new wave band ABC, released in 1984 as part of their album “How to Be a…Zillionaire!”. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy hooks, and funky guitar riffs give it a danceable and infectious feel. The lyrics are a playful invitation to explore love and desire, with lines like “Show me a lover who’s gentle and kind, and I’ll show you a loser with a sensitive mind.” The song’s infectious chorus and dynamic arrangement showcase the band’s ability to create catchy and upbeat pop songs. “Show Me” is a fan favorite and a highlight of ABC’s mid-80s output.
5. The Flames Of Desire
“The Flames of Desire” is a song by English new wave band ABC, originally released in 2016 on their album The Lexicon of Love II. The song features a lush, orchestral sound, with sweeping strings and soaring vocals from lead singer Martin Fry. The lyrics speak of the intense passion and longing of romantic love, with lines like “The flames of desire burn hot and bright / The flames of desire light up the night.” The song’s epic sound and emotional intensity make it a standout track on the album, and it showcases ABC’s ability to create timeless, dramatic pop music that resonates with audiences across generations.
6. Poison Arrow
“Poison Arrow” is a song by English new wave band ABC, released in 1982 as part of their album “The Lexicon of Love”. The song’s distinctive bassline, catchy hooks, and Martin Fry’s smooth vocals give it a sophisticated and groovy feel. The lyrics express a bitter and resentful tone towards a former lover, with lines like “Who broke my heart? You did, you did.” The song’s memorable chorus and dramatic arrangement showcase the band’s ability to craft hook-laden and emotionally resonant pop songs. “Poison Arrow” remains a fan favorite and a classic of the new wave era.
7. Be Near Me
“Be Near Me” is a song by English new wave band ABC, originally released in 1985 on their album How to Be a Zillionaire!. The song features a catchy, synth-driven sound, with a prominent beat and shimmering guitars. The lyrics speak of the power of love and the desire for intimacy, with lines like “The message is perfectly simple / The meaning is clear / Don’t ever stray too far / And don’t disappear.” The song’s upbeat sound and memorable chorus make it a standout track on the album, and it remains a beloved 80s pop classic.
8. A To Z
“A to Z” is a song by English new wave band ABC, released in 1985 as part of their album “How to Be a…Zillionaire!”. The song’s catchy synth riffs, driving beat, and Martin Fry’s confident vocals give it an energetic and playful feel. The lyrics list different words and phrases that begin with each letter of the alphabet, with Fry’s charming delivery adding a sense of whimsy and fun. The song’s infectious chorus and dynamic arrangement showcase the band’s ability to create upbeat and catchy pop songs. “A to Z” is a fan favorite and a highlight of ABC’s mid-80s output.
9. How To Be A Millionaire
“How to Be a Millionaire” is a song by English new wave band ABC, originally released in 1985 on their album How to Be a Zillionaire!. The song features a slick, electronic sound, with funky bass and memorable synth hooks. The lyrics satirize the excesses and superficiality of the 80s, with lines like “I’ve seen the future, I can’t afford it / Tell me the truth, sir, someone just bought it.” The song’s playful tone and catchy chorus make it a standout track on the album, and it remains a cult favorite among fans of 80s new wave music.
10. Tears Are Not Enough
“Tears Are Not Enough” is a song by English new wave band ABC, originally released in 1981 on their album The Lexicon of Love. The song features a dramatic, orchestral sound, with sweeping strings and a soaring vocal performance from lead singer Martin Fry. The lyrics speak of the pain and heartbreak of lost love, with lines like “Tears are not enough / Just tears are not enough / If you can’t hear me when I’m calling / Hear me now.” The song’s emotional intensity and grandeur make it a standout track on the album, and it remains a classic of 80s pop music.
Edward Tomlin 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.
