“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Don’t You (Forget About Me)” is a song by the Scottish rock band Simple Minds that became an iconic anthem of the 1980s. Released in 1985, the track gained widespread popularity after its inclusion in the soundtrack of the classic teen film “The Breakfast Club.” The song’s catchy melody and memorable chorus have cemented its place in music history, making it one of Simple Minds’ most recognizable hits.
About The Composition
- Title: Don’t You (Forget About Me)
- Composer: Keith Forsey and Steve Schiff
- Premiere Date: 1985
- Album/Opus/Collection: The Breakfast Club: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
- Genre: New wave, pop rock
Background
“Don’t You (Forget About Me)” was written by Keith Forsey and Steve Schiff, specifically for the soundtrack of “The Breakfast Club.” Initially, several artists, including Bryan Ferry and Billy Idol, were approached to record the song, but they declined. Simple Minds were initially reluctant, as they preferred to write their own material, but eventually agreed and recorded the track in a single day.
Musical Style
The song features a driving beat and an anthemic chorus, characteristic of the new wave and pop rock genres. Its use of synthesizers, along with Jim Kerr’s emotive vocal delivery, creates a sound that is both powerful and nostalgic, capturing the essence of mid-80s rock music.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” speak to themes of remembrance and longing, posing a plea not to be forgotten by someone significant. The repetition of the title phrase throughout the chorus underscores a universal desire for enduring connection and recognition.
Performance History
“Don’t You (Forget About Me)” has been performed by Simple Minds in countless live concerts around the world. It remains a staple of their setlists, often serving as a climactic finale. The song’s enduring popularity ensures its frequent inclusion in 1980s-themed events and retrospectives.
Cultural Impact
The song’s association with “The Breakfast Club” has made it a cultural touchstone, often linked with the film’s themes of adolescent identity and rebellion. It has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, further embedding it in popular culture.
Legacy
Today, “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” is considered a classic of the 1980s, symbolizing the era’s distinctive musical style and cultural moments. Its enduring appeal is evident in its continued radio play and presence in nostalgic media.
Conclusion
“Don’t You (Forget About Me)” remains a powerful reminder of the 1980s’ cultural landscape. Its memorable melody and poignant lyrics continue to resonate with audiences today. I encourage you to explore Simple Minds’ broader discography to appreciate their full impact on the music world.
Video
Lyrics
Hey, hey, hey, hey
Ooh, woah
Won’t you come see about me?
I’ll be alone, dancing you know it, baby
Tell me your troubles and doubts
Giving me everything inside and out and
Love’s strange so real in the dark
Think of the tender things that we were working on
Slow change may pull us apart
When the light gets into your heart, baby
Don’t you forget about me
Don’t don’t don’t don’t
Don’t you forget about me
Will you stand above me
Look my way, never love me
Rain keeps falling, rain keeps falling
Down, down, down
Will you recognise me
Call my name or walk on by
Rain keeps falling, rain keeps falling
Down, down, down, down
Hey, hey, hey, hey
Ooh, woah
Don’t you try to pretend
It’s my feeling we’ll win in the end
I won’t harm you or touch your defenses
Vanity, insecurity ah
Don’t you forget about me
I’ll be alone, dancing you know it baby
Going to take you apart
I’ll put us back together at heart, baby
Don’t you forget about me
Don’t don’t don’t don’t
Don’t you forget about me
As you walk on by
Will you call my name?
As you walk on by
Will you call my name?
When you walk away
Oh will you walk away?
Will you walk on by?
Come on, call my name
Will you call my name?
I say:
La la la…
When you walk on by
And you call my name…