Song Of The Day – Carly Simon’s Coming Around Again

Today’s Song of the Day selection is Carly Simon’s “Coming Around Again,” a tune that carries the emotional punch of lived experience—equal parts hope, heartbreak, and getting back up again. Released in the UK in January 1987 on Arista Records, it quickly struck a chord with listeners, climbing to No. 10 on the UK Singles Chart and holding a top 40 spot for eight weeks. In the US, it found its way to No. 18 on the Billboard Hot 100, further cementing Simon’s reputation as someone who knew how to capture the moods and struggles of real life in her music.

There’s something universal in its message: juggling everyday chaos, weathering messy relationships, and still believing that love and happiness will eventually circle back. Stories from fans describe how the song echoed their own experiences—especially those trying to keep families together or starting over after hard times. The lyrics, talking about “there’s more room in a broken heart,” ring out as a gentle anthem for anyone who’s rebuilt something precious from the ruins. Simon’s honest delivery, especially given her own ups and downs, made the song feel both intimate and true, not just another sugar-coated pop hit.

The track led Simon’s album of the same name, which marked a career comeback and brought more hits along with it. If the melody sounds familiar, it might be because it featured in the movie Heartburn or perhaps because it has that rare quality of sticking with people, becoming a backdrop for moments of both joy and sorrow. “Coming Around Again” is the musical equivalent of a big, reassuring hug—the sort of music that reminds everyone that however many times life knocks us sideways, there’s always a chance for things to come around again.

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Song of the Day: Hue and Cry’s “Labour of Love” – A Timeless Sophisti-Pop Classic

Scottish duo Hue and Cry released their memorable single “Labour of Love” on 1 June 1987 in the United Kingdom. This song was the second single from their debut album Seduced and Abandoned (1987). The single proved to be a significant hit, reaching a peak chart position of number 6 on the UK Singles Chart. The song also enjoyed renewed attention in 1993 when it was remixed by house producer Joey Negro and re-released, peaking at number 25 in the UK.

While “Labour of Love” gained notable success in the UK, its performance in the US charts was more modest, with no significant chart impact reported. However, the song remains an iconic part of the British sophisti-pop scene of the late 1980s.

What makes “Labour of Love” so enjoyable is its rich blend of thoughtful lyrics and catchy, soulful pop melodies, driven by the smooth vocal interplay between brothers Pat and Greg Kane. The song’s lyrical themes and energetic yet polished sound invite listeners to both reflect and dance, capturing that sophisticated yet heartfelt essence unique to Hue and Cry.

Hue and Cry had several other singles beyond “Labour of Love,” including “I Refuse,” “Strength to Strength,” and “Looking for Linda,” many of which also charted successfully in the UK. The duo built a solid career with a string of albums and singles, earning devoted fans and recognition for their distinctive style.

For those interested, here is the the official music video for “Labour of Love”:

Tasmin Archer’s “In Your Care” – A Heartfelt Classic

Tasmin Archer released her poignant single “In Your Care” on 8 February 1993 in the United Kingdom under EMI Records. The track, the second single from her debut album Great Expectations (1992), reached a peak position of number 16 on the UK Singles Chart. Though it didn’t climb as high as her debut hit “Sleeping Satellite,” it strongly connected with listeners for its emotional depth and important subject matter.

The single was also released in the United States, where it found moderate success, peaking at number 32 on the Billboard Hot 100. This US chart performance cemented Archer’s impact beyond the UK and showcased the global resonance of her music.

“In Your Care” is notable for its powerful lyrics addressing the difficult topic of child abuse. Tasmin Archer co-wrote the song with John Beck and John Hughes, and generously donated the royalties from the single to the UK charity Childline. The combination of thoughtful songwriting and Archer’s heartfelt vocal delivery makes it a truly special track that resonates on a deeper emotional level.

This song is particularly meaningful to me because of its sincere, raw portrayal of pain and vulnerability—qualities that elevate it beyond just a pop single. It feels intimate and profound, reminding us of music’s ability to convey real human struggles.