A person asked on one of the SM Facebook groups I am on – if you were introducing a current non-fan to Simple Minds, what song would you choose to play to them?
I’ve been thinking about it over the past couple of days. One song? To encapsulate a band that has an 18 album strong catalogue, somewhere in the region of 300 songs and a diverse range of sub-genres within the broader rock/pop genre, not to mention a 44 year existence…that’s tough!
Then of course there is all the scope that “personal preference” gives and reveals. Within the fanbase there is a diverse range of favourite songs and favourite albums, favourite periods of the bands existence, etc, etc. Generally, the overall preferences seem to be early SM – pre 1984 – then post 1984 until the early 1990s. Most lauded album tends to be New Gold Dream. Favourite song? That’s a bit more of an open field.
Factoring all of that, I plumbed for this as my choice. I feel this gives good scope. It shows an early side to them that was more “poppy” and yet still a little underground. It has a commerciality to it and it’s musically both looking back whilst sounding fresh and current. A catchy tune. Great guitar riffs and synth hooks. Great lyrics too. I think if one song could embody Simple Minds then Calling Your Name does a pretty stellar job. There is also a live version that shows the “wow” of the band as baby boys (Jim is aff his wee titties in this one!) from 1980 – view here – https://youtu.be/SqeMXZmcPpY (from the six minute mark for Calling Your Name)
Happy MMM! Enjoy!
Interesting choice. Runs the risk of folk saying ” That sounds like Roxy Music” 🙂 . I’d have to go with New Gold Dream. Similar reasons to your pick but it has that expansive sound typical of Simple Minds without being way over the top.
I guess. Good point. Never thought about it sounding that Roxy like, but now you mention it? but I still hear Roxy influences with New Gold Dream. Esp. the way Jim sings. I thought I was making a well thought out choice. Lol. You got me, Scobes!
Not at all, there’s no right or wrong answer. I listened to Calling your Name the other night for the first time in a while and it’s a great track with all band members playing their part.