Tears for Fears, formed in Bath, England, in 1981 by childhood friends Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith, emerged as one of the most influential bands of the 1980s new wave movement.
The duo pioneered a sophisticated blend of new wave, pop rock, and synth-pop, distinguished by their emotionally intelligent lyrics and polished production values.
About the Song
“Everybody Wants to Rule the World” is one of Tears for Fears’ most iconic songs, blending new wave and pop-rock elements with thought-provoking commentary on power and ambition.
The track features a distinctive driving guitar riff and synthesizer melody that helped define the sound of 1980s pop music.
Its upbeat musical arrangement contrasts with its deeper lyrical themes about the corrupting nature of power and the universal human desire for control.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Song | “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” |
| Release Date | March 22, 1985 |
| Album | Songs from the Big Chair |
| Writers | Roland Orzabal, Ian Stanley, Chris Hughes |
| Producers | Chris Hughes, Roland Orzabal |
| Song Description | A new wave/pop rock anthem combining catchy melodies with political and social commentary. The song features prominent guitar work, synthesizers, and a driving rhythm section, becoming one of the band’s signature hits and a defining song of the 1980s. The song’s lyrics detail humanity’s desire for control and power. |
Everybody Wants To Rule The World by Tears for Fears Lyrics
Verse 1
Welcome to your life
There’s no turning back
Even while we sleep
We will find you
Chorus
Acting on your best behaviour
Turn your back on Mother Nature
Everybody wants to rule the world
Verse 2
It’s my own design
It’s my own remorse
Help me to decide
Help me make the
Chorus
Most of freedom and of pleasure
Nothing ever lasts forever
Everybody wants to rule the world
Bridge
There’s a room where the light won’t find you
Holding hands while the walls come tumbling down
When they do, I’ll be right behind you
See upcoming pop shows
Get tickets for your favorite artists
Chorus
So glad we’ve almost made it
So sad they had to fade it
Everybody wants to rule the…
Instrumental Break
Chorus
I can’t stand this indecision
Married with a lack of vision
Everybody wants to rule the—
Say that you’ll never, never, never, never need it
One headline, why believe it?
Everybody wants to rule the world
Chorus
All for freedom and for pleasure
Nothing ever lasts forever
Everybody wants to rule the world
Live Performances of the Song
Tears for Fears – Everybody Wants to Rule the World ( Live Performance At SiriusXM 2022)
Tears for Fears – Everybody Wants to Rule the World ( Live Performance At Historic LA Studio The Village 2014)
Similar Songs Like Everybody Wants To Rule The World by Tears for Fears
- “Shout” – Released on the same album, this powerful anthem shares similar themes of protest and social commentary, though with a more intense, dramatic sound and harder-hitting production
- “Mad World” – While from their earlier album “The Hurting,” this track similarly combines deep, contemplative lyrics with catchy melodic hooks, though with a darker, more melancholic tone.
- “Head Over Heels” – Another hit from “Songs from the Big Chair,” this song showcases the same level of production sophistication and memorable hooks, featuring similar layered synthesizer work.
- “Sowing the Seeds of Love” – Released in 1989, this track maintains the political awareness of “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” while incorporating more psychedelic elements and Beatles-inspired production.
- “Break it Down Again” – Though released later in 1993, this song continues the tradition of combining accessible pop melodies with thoughtful lyrics about social and personal transformation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Was the Inspiration Behind the Song?
Roland Orzabal stated that the song was inspired by ideas about power and corruption, drawing from various sources, including the Cold War tensions of the 1980s. The band wanted to create a contrast between the upbeat melody and the serious subject matter.
How Long Did It Take to Record the Song?
Surprisingly, the song took over three weeks to record, which was longer than any other track on the album. The band has mentioned that getting the driving guitar sound and perfect drum pattern took considerable experimentation.
Did the Song Win Any Awards?
“Everybody Wants to Rule the World” won Best Single at the 1986 Brit Awards and helped the band win the Best New Artist award at the 1986 MTV Video Music Awards.
Where Did the Song Chart Globally?
The song reached #2 in the UK Singles Chart and hit #1 on the US Billboard Hot 100. It also achieved top 10 status in numerous other countries, including Canada, Ireland, and New Zealand.
Has the Song Been Used in Any Notable Media?
The song has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and video games, including “Real Genius” (1985), “Donnie Darko” (2001), and various seasons of “American Horror Story.” It’s also been covered by multiple artists, including Lorde for “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” soundtrack.
