Black - Wonderful Life

The song "Wonderful Life" became the hallmark of British singer and songwriter Colin Vearncombe, who performed under the pseudonym Black. This song is one of the most striking and recognizable hits of the 80s, known for its melancholic, but at the same time hopeful atmosphere.

Creation and initial context (1985-1986)

A difficult period in the author's life: Colin Vearncombe wrote "Wonderful Life" in 1985, when he was in a very difficult situation in life. According to his own words, by the end of 1985, he had been involved in several car accidents, his mother was seriously ill, he had lost his contract with a major label (WEA) after only two singles, his first marriage had ended, and he was on the verge of homelessness. He said that at that time he was "homeless," although he was "wandering among friends."

The irony in the title: It was at this time, sitting and thinking about his life, that he wrote a song called "Wonderful Life." Werncomb later admitted that the name was intended ironically. He wanted to express how, despite all the misfortunes, life still goes on as usual, and there is something "wonderful" about it, even if it seems sarcastic.

First Release: "Wonderful Life" was originally released as a single in September 1986 on the small independent label Ugly Man Records. At the time, it only reached number 72 on the UK charts, but it was enough to catch the attention of the major record label A&M Records.

Worldwide success and "The Wedding Album" (1987)

Re-recording and album: Following the success of Black's other single, "Sweetest Smile" (which reached number 8 in the UK), A&M Records decided to re-record and re-release "Wonderful Life". This new, higher quality version was released in 1987 and included on the debut self-titled album "Wonderful Life" (1987).

International Hit: The re-released "Wonderful Life" became a huge international hit, reaching the top 10 in many countries, including Australia, Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and, of course, the United Kingdom (where it also reached number 8).

Music Video: The black-and-white music video for the song, directed by Gérard de Temme, has become as iconic as the song itself. It was filmed in the vicinity of the English seaside resort of Southport (Merseyside) and Wallasey, near Colin Vearncombe's hometown of Liverpool. The visual aspect of the video, with its melancholic landscapes and contemplative mood, perfectly complemented the song's atmosphere.

The meaning of the song: irony and hope

Ambivalent message: Although Werncomb conceived the song with a touch of irony, many listeners took it literally as a sincere hymn to the joy of life. This duality — a combination of a minor key and deep melancholy with a superficially optimistic title and chorus — was one of the reasons for its appeal. The phrase "No need to run and hide, it's a wonderful, wonderful life" (No need to run and hide, it's a wonderful, wonderful life) was perceived by many as a consolation and a source of hope.

Self-identification: Verkomb later commented that although the song was a "miracle" for him, it also became a kind of burden. He often found himself being compared to "Wonderful Life" for his new work, and heard phrases like "I like it, but it's not Wonderful Life."

Legacy:

"Wonderful Life" remains one of the most beloved hits of the 80s. Its atmospheric sound, Verklemme's deep baritone, and lyrical versatility have ensured its longevity. The song continues to be used in advertisements and films, and has inspired numerous cover versions, solidifying its status as an ageless classic.

It is unfortunate that Colin Verklemme himself tragically passed away in a car accident in 2016, but his "Wonderful Life" continues to live on, touching the hearts of listeners worldwide...