Duran Duran – The Wild Boys
“The Wild Boys” is the twelfth single by English New Wave band Duran Duran and the lead single (the only studio track) for their live album, “Arena,” and later appeared on their compilation album, “Greatest Hits.” It was written by Duran Duran members, Simon Le Bon, John Taylor, Roger Taylor, Andy Taylor and Nick Rhodes, and produced by Nile Rodgers, who had previously remixed the band’s previous single “The Reflex”. The single was released on October 26, 1984 with “((I’m Looking For) Cracks in the Pavement” (1984) on the B-side.
“The Wild Boys” achieved commercial success, reaching the top ten in several countries, including #1 in Germany and South Africa, #2 in the United Kingdom and the United States, and #3 in Australia. The song’s unique sound, along with its visually captivating music video, helped maintain Duran Duran’s status as one of the leading bands of the 1980s.
The music video for “The Wild Boys” is a visually stunning and highly cinematic production. Directed by Russell Mulcahy, who had previously worked with the band on several of their iconic videos, the video features elaborate sets, intricate costumes, and innovative special effects. The video depicts a dystopian world, with scenes of tribal warriors, surreal landscapes, and futuristic elements.
“The Wild Boys” is characterized by its energetic and dramatic sound, blending elements of new wave, rock, and synth-pop. The song was inspired by the post-apocalyptic novel “The Wild Boys: A Book of the Dead” by William S. Burroughs, which explores themes of chaos, violence, and survival. Duran Duran incorporated these themes into the lyrics, creating a vivid and dark narrative. The song features a driving rhythm section, infectious synthesizer hooks, and powerful guitar riffs. Simon Le Bon’s dynamic and expressive vocals contribute to the song’s dramatic impact. The memorable chorus, with its chant-like delivery of the title phrase, adds to the song’s anthemic quality.
“The Wild Boys” remains one of Duran Duran’s most recognizable and iconic songs. Its combination of powerful instrumentation, atmospheric production, and thought-provoking imagery solidified its place in pop culture. The song continues to be celebrated for its energetic and adventurous spirit, showcasing Duran Duran’s ability to push boundaries and deliver a distinct sound.
