Once Upon a Time
Simple Minds · 1985
40 min · 8 tracks · new wave
Anthemic melodies and lush synths intertwine with evocative lyrics, embodying the essence of mid-80s new wave.
Why this album works
- Best for
- long, immersive listening sessions dynamic emotional journeys energetic workout motivation
- Context
- Released on October 21, 1985, 'Once Upon a Time' was Simple Minds' sixth studio album. Positioned as their follow-up to the successful 'Sparkle in the Rain,' this album marked a peak in their commercial success as they embraced a more polished sound that appealed to a wider audience.
- If you like
- new wave
Once Upon a Time is an album by Simple Minds, released in 1985. Anthemic melodies and lush synths intertwine with evocative lyrics, embodying the essence of mid-80s new wave. The album reached No. 1 on the UK Albums Chart and spawned major singles like 'Alive and Kicking,' which became an anthem of the era. Its critical reception reinforced Simple Minds' status within the new wave movement, influencing many artists who followed. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Once Upon a Time sound like?
Anthemic melodies and lush synths intertwine with evocative lyrics, embodying the essence of mid-80s new wave. Rooted in new wave.
What makes Once Upon a Time by Simple Minds notable?
The album reached No. 1 on the UK Albums Chart and spawned major singles like 'Alive and Kicking,' which became an anthem of the era. Its critical reception reinforced Simple Minds' status within the new wave movement, influencing many artists who followed. Released on October 21, 1985, 'Once Upon a Time' was Simple Minds' sixth studio album. Positioned as their follow-up to the successful 'Sparkle in the Rain,' this album marked a peak in their commercial success as they embraced a more polished sound that appealed to a wider audience.
Who is Once Upon a Time for?
Once Upon a Time works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, dynamic emotional journeys and energetic workout motivation.
How many songs are on Once Upon a Time?
Once Upon a Time has 8 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Once Upon a Time 5:45
- 2 All the Things She Said 4:16
- 3 Ghost Dancing Standout 4:45
- 4 Alive and Kicking Standout 5:25
- 5 Oh Jungleland 5:14
- 6 I Wish You Were Here 4:43
- 7 Sanctify Yourself Standout 5:00
- 8 Come a Long Way 5:06
Learn More
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.