Frankie Goes To Hollywood - Relax

The Frankie Goes to Hollywood’s debut single “Relax” was released on 24 October 1983 by ZTT Records with “One September Monday” pm the B-side. The song was written by band members Holly Johnson, Peter Gill, and Mark O’Toole, and produced by Trevor Horn.. The song caused a stir upon its release due to its provocative lyrics and suggestive themes. The single reached number one in the UK on 28 January 1984 and stayed in the UK Top 40 for 37 consecutive weeks. “Relax” sold two million copies in the UK alone. In 1985 “Relax” was awarded Best British Single of 1984 at the Brit Awards, and the band won Best British Newcomer.

The song’s lyrics are sexually suggestive, with references to oral sex and other sexual acts. The song’s chorus encourages listeners to “Relax, don’t do it, when you want to go to it / Relax, don’t do it, when you want to come.” Despite its controversial content, the song has become an enduring classic and a staple of 80s pop culture.

In addition to its commercial success, “Relax” also helped to establish Frankie Goes To Hollywood as one of the most iconic bands of the 1980s. The band went on to release several more hits, including “Two Tribes” and “The Power of Love,” before disbanding in 1987.

The first official music video for “Relax” was directed by English filmmaker Bernard Rose. It was filmed in S&M themed gay nightclub. The music video was allegedly banned by MTV and the BBC. The second video – directed by Godley & Creme[ in early 1984 – featured the group performing with the help of laser beams.