ABC – Be Near Me: Lyrics and Music Video

"Be Near Me" is a hit song by the British band ABC, from their 1985 album How to Be a ... Zillionaire!. ABC, known for their sophisticated pop sound and association with the new wave genre, achieved significant success with this track, especially in the United States.

Here’s some key information about the song:

Background and Style:

• Release Date: 1985
• Genre: Synth-pop, New Wave
• Album: How to Be a ... Zillionaire!
• Writers: Martin Fry (the lead singer of ABC) and Mark White (guitarist and keyboardist)
• Producer: Martin Fry, Mark White, and Trevor Horn, who was known for his work with other influential new wave artists like Frankie Goes to Hollywood.

The song showcases ABC's blend of synth-driven melodies, catchy hooks, and an upbeat tempo typical of 1980s pop music. Martin Fry's vocals give the track a sophisticated and emotional touch, reflecting themes of love, vulnerability, and longing.

Commercial Success:

• Chart Performance:
  • In the U.S., "Be Near Me" became one of ABC's biggest hits, reaching #9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #1 on the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.
  • In the UK, it charted at #26, though it was still a standout track for the band.
• The song's success helped solidify ABC's presence in the American market, even as their popularity in the UK had declined somewhat by the mid-'80s.

Lyrics and Meaning:

The lyrics of "Be Near Me" are centered around vulnerability in love, with the recurring line "Be near me, be near" reflecting a desire for closeness and emotional connection. The song has an introspective feel, capturing the tension between the fear of getting hurt and the need for intimacy.

Legacy:

"Be Near Me" remains one of ABC's most memorable tracks and continues to be celebrated as part of the band's legacy in the 1980s pop scene. Its infectious melody and production reflect the vibrant, polished sound of that era, making it a classic of the synth-pop genre.

This song also highlights ABC's ability to balance emotional depth with catchy, accessible pop music, a formula that contributed to their lasting influence on the new wave and synth-pop movements.