Once Upon a Time cover

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

8 tracks·40:16

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

Release Date

October 21, 1985

Genre

new wave

More albums in new wave

Artist Origin

Scotland

Runtime

40 min 16 sec