Bananarama, formed in London in 1980, consists of Sara Dallin (born December 17, 1961), Siobhan Fahey (born September 10, 1958), and Keren Woodward (born April 2, 1961).
These British women changed pop music in the 1980s by becoming one of the most successful girl groups ever, with 32 Top 50 singles and over 30 million records sold worldwide.
While Fahey left in 1988 to form Shakespeare Sister (though she later rejoined for reunions), Dallin and Woodward kept making music together, releasing 12 studio albums over their career.
The group’s talent earned them a place in the Guinness World Records as the most successful girl group lineup of all time, though they surprisingly never won a BRIT Award despite their massive success.
About The Song “Cruel Summer” By Bananarama
“Cruel Summer” is a hit single by Bananarama from the album “In a Bunch” (1983), released on June 27, 1983.
The song captures the frustration and loneliness of a hot urban summer with a catchy melody and lyrics.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Release Date | June 27, 1983 |
| Album | “Bananarama” (1983) |
| Writers | Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Steve Jolley, Tony Swain |
| Producers | Steve Jolley, Tony Swain |
“Cruel Summer” Lyrics By Bananarama
Verse 1
Hot summer streets and the pavements are burning, I sit around
Trying to smile, but the air is so heavy and dry
Strange voices are saying (What did they say?)
Things I can’t understand
It’s too close for comfort, this heat has got right out of hand
Chorus 1
It’s a cruel
(Cruel), cruel summer
Leaving me here on my own
It’s a cruel (It’s a cruel), cruel summer
Now you’re gone
Verse 2
The city is crowded, my friends are away and I’m on my own
It’s too hot to handle so I gotta get up and go
Chorus 1
It’s a cruel
(Cruel), cruel summer
Leaving me here on my own
It’s a cruel (It’s a cruel), cruel summer
Now you’re gone
You’re not the only one
Chorus 2
It’s a cruel
(Cruel), cruel summer
(Leaving me) Leaving me here on my own
It’s a cruel (It’s a cruel), cruel summer
Now you’re gone
[Instrumental break]
Chorus 3
It’s a cruel, cruel summer
Leaving me here on my own
It’s a cruel, cruel summer
Now you’re gone
You’re not the only one
Chorus 2
It’s a cruel
(Cruel), cruel summer
(Leaving me) Leaving me here on my own
It’s a cruel (It’s a cruel), cruel summer
Now you’re gone
You’re not the only one
Outro
It’s a cruel
(Cruel), cruel summer
(Leaving me) Leaving me here on my own
It’s a cruel (It’s a cruel), cruel summer
Live Performances Of The Song “Cruel Summer”
Live At The London Eventim Hammersmith Apollo
Date: September 7, 2018
Location: London Eventim Hammersmith Apollo
Details:
- Bananarama performed a live rendition of “Cruel Summer” at the iconic London Eventim Hammersmith Apollo, later featured on their album Live At The London Eventim Hammersmith Apollo.
- This energetic performance highlighted their timeless stage presence, with fans applauding the nostalgic vibes and powerful delivery.
- The performance was celebrated for its vibrant energy and faithful recreation of the classic hit.
Similar Songs Like “Cruel Summer” By Bananarama
- “Robert De Niro’s Waiting” (1984): This playful tune blends fantasy and catchy pop beats, capturing the magic of movie star daydreaming.
- “Venus” (1986): This high-energy dance-pop anthem reimagines the 1969 Shocking Blue hit with irresistible power and flair.
- “I Heard a Rumour” (1987): This upbeat track deals with gossip and rumors, delivering their signature harmonies and an infectious chorus.
- “Love in the First Degree” (1987): This bold confession of being love-struck is wrapped in classic synth-pop style and memorable hooks.
- “I Want You Back” (1988): This energetic dance single, their last with Siobhan Fahey, expresses desire and longing with vibrant beats.
- “Only Your Love” (1991): This track showcases their evolution into a 90s sound with a rhythmic dance beat and heartfelt devotion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When Was Bananarama Formed, and Who Were the Original Members?
Bananarama was formed in 1981 by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, and Keren Woodward.
When Was “Cruel Summer” Released?
“Cruel Summer” was released on June 27, 1983.
Who Wrote “Cruel Summer”?
The song was written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Steve Jolley, and Tony Swain.
Why Did the Song Gain Renewed Popularity in the US?
The song gained popularity after being featured in the 1984 movie The Karate Kid.
