The group's debut single, titled "Relax", was famously banned by the BBC and subsequently topped the U.K. singles chart for five weeks, enjoying prolonged chart success throughout 1984. Following the phenomenal follow-up success of "Two Tribes" and "The Power of Love", the latter being an emotional ballad experiencing seasonal resurgence over the years, FGTH became only the second act in the history of the UK charts to reach number one with their first three singles.
Things began to unravel in 1985 when their fourth single, "Welcome To The Pleasuredome", stalled at number two (success that many other groups would deeply envy, but they faced massive expectations). Their second (and final album), called 'Liverpool', took over a year to complete, reportedly at huge expense. The lead-off single, "Rage Hard", peaked at number four, and it was clear that the public had began to move on. 'Liverpool' sold poorly, despite critical acclaim and underground song plays, and conflict between lead singer Holly Johnson and the rest of the band led to an acrimonious split.
Johnson embarked on an initially successful solo career, but he quickly spiraled into obscurity. The rest of the band broke up completely after several attempts to recruit a new lead singer. Nonetheless, the group had proved hugely influential. Their three number one singles have been extensively remixed and repackaged over the years, and, despite their limited back catalogue, the band is generally seen as being one of the defining moments of the eighties. Numerous new wave and post-punk music revivalists look back to their aggressive yet stylish sound as an inspiration. The band is also known today for having a hit video game based around them for the ZX Spectrum, Amstrad CPC and Commodore 64, giving them an interesting spot in video gaming history.
Rage Hard (The Young Person's Guide To The 12
Frankie Goes to Hollywood Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Young and strong on the wings of tomorrow
Rise up in millions get off your knees
Dispelling the demons
In the valley of danger we all work together
Sculptures in sorrow love light to follow, on
Sweet head of Apollo
(Rage hard)
Into the light
(Rage hard)
Doing it right, doing it right
(Rage hard)
Against the dark
(Rage hard)
Make your mark
Let the tournament begin
Don't give up and don't give in
Strength to rise up, strength to win
Strength to save the world from losing
(Rage hard)
Into the light
(Rage hard)
Doing it right
(Rage hard)
Against the dark
(Rage hard)
Rage
(Rage hard)
Though blue eyes of children they shine without fear
Hope is the future, with oceans of cheer
(Nothing to fear)
There's nothing to fear
Laughter of angels resounding from heaven
Fighting the favors of charlatan saviors
Charlatan saviors
(Rage hard)
Into the light
(Rage hard)
Doing it right, doing it right
(Rage hard)
Against the dark
(Rage hard)
Make your mark
Let the tournament begin
Don't give up and don't give in
(Rage hard)
Into the light
(Rage hard)
Doing it right
(Rage hard)
Against the dark
(Rage hard)
Make your mark
I don't know which way to go
My love's like driven snow
We'll be free
Young and strong on the wings of tomorrow
(Rage hard)
(Rage hard)
Let the tournament begin
Don't give up and don't give in
(Rage hard)
Into the light
(Rage hard)
Doing it right
Let the tournament begin
(Rage hard)
Don't give up and don't give in
Strength to rise up, strength to win
Strength to save the world from losing
The song "Rage Hard" by Frankie Goes to Hollywood is a call to action for young people to rise up and fight against the dangers and demons of the world. The opening line "Laugh like the head of Apollo" suggests that the singer is calling for a sense of confidence and strength in the face of challenges. The following lines "Young and strong on the wings of tomorrow" reinforce this message by linking youth with hope and possibility.
The chorus "Rage hard" is a repeated call to action, urging young people to fight against the darkness and make their mark on the world. The line "Strength to save the world from losing" emphasizes the seriousness of the situation, suggesting that there is something at stake for this generation.
The second verse expands on the message of the first, describing a valley of danger where people must work together to create something beautiful ("Sculptures in sorrow love light to follow, on / Sweet head of Apollo"). The third verse brings a note of optimism, suggesting that despite the challenges, there is hope for the future ("Though blue eyes of children they shine without fear / Hope is the future, with oceans of cheer").
Overall, "Rage Hard" is a powerful anthem that encourages young people to take control of their lives and make a difference in the world.
Line by Line Meaning
Laugh like the head of Apollo
Be confident and bold like the head of Apollo, the Greek god, and laugh at life's challenges.
Young and strong on the wings of tomorrow
Youthfulness and strength will enable you to achieve your goals and soar high like a bird on the wings of tomorrow.
Rise up in millions get off your knees
Come together as a strong force, rise up from your subservient position, and take charge of your life.
Dispelling the demons
Overcome your fears and doubts that hinder your success.
In the valley of danger we all work together
In the face of danger, we must unite and work together for our common good.
Sculptures in sorrow love light to follow, on
Even amidst despair, look for love and hope that will guide you on your journey.
Sweet head of Apollo
Again, be bold and confident like Apollo, the Greek god.
(Rage hard)
Into the light
(Rage hard)
Doing it right, doing it right
(Rage hard)
Against the dark
(Rage hard)
Make your mark
Rage hard and fight against the darkness that surrounds you, always striving to do what's right and make a positive impact.
Let the tournament begin
Life is a competition, so let us face it with the strength and determination to succeed.
Don't give up and don't give in
Despite any obstacles, do not surrender or yield to defeat.
Strength to rise up, strength to win
Strength to save the world from losing
We need the power and resilience to rise above challenges, triumph over adversity, and save the world from catastrophe.
Though blue eyes of children they shine without fear
Hope is the future, with oceans of cheer
(Nothing to fear)
There's nothing to fear
Children embody hope with their unwavering courage, and the future is full of promise and joy. Therefore, there is nothing to fear.
Laughter of angels resounding from heaven
Fighting the favors of charlatan saviors
Charlatan saviors
Angels bring joy and fight against false prophets who deceive others with their false promises.
I don't know which way to go
My love's like driven snow
We'll be free
Despite uncertainty and confusion, love is pure and enduring, and it will ultimately lead us to freedom.
Let the tournament begin
Don't give up and don't give in
(Rage hard)
Into the light
(Rage hard)
Doing it right
Let the tournament begin
(Rage hard)
Don't give up and don't give in
Strength to rise up, strength to win
Strength to save the world from losing
This last stanza is a repetition of previous lines, reinforcing the same message of resilience and fighting against adversity.
Lyrics © OBO APRA/AMCOS
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