In 1985, Simple Minds released Once Upon a Time—an album that confirmed what longtime fans already knew: they were born for the world stage. With sweeping melodies, anthemic energy, and lyrics that reached skyward, the Scottish band matched their ambition with sound and vision. This was the album that turned their momentum into a movement. Here are five powerful and uplifting facts about Once Upon a Time, a record that showed Simple Minds were always ready to rise.
1. They Built An Album Around Their Own Voice
“Don’t You (Forget About Me)” became a global hit, but when the time came to make Once Upon a Time, the band kept the spotlight on their own songwriting. Instead of leaning on outside material, Simple Minds trusted the strength of their own work. The result was a tracklist that reflected their growth and identity—songs that spoke directly from the heart of the band.
2. Jimmy Iovine Brought Out Their Power
Producer Jimmy Iovine brought experience from working with Bruce Springsteen and Stevie Nicks, and he infused Simple Minds with a new kind of intensity. He encouraged Jim Kerr to sing with more passion and presence. The band responded with one of their most dynamic and spirited albums. Each track carries the weight of that momentum and belief.
3. “Alive and Kicking” Set The Tone For Everything To Come
The album’s lead single, “Alive and Kicking,” was more than a song—it was a declaration. With Robin Clark’s bold harmonies and a rhythm section built for stadiums, the song carried a message of endurance and joy. It perfectly captured the band’s energy and readiness to meet every moment head-on.
4. “All the Things She Said” Began With a Story of Hope
Inspired by an article about women waiting for loved ones held as political prisoners, Jim Kerr found the emotional core of “All the Things She Said” in real-life resilience. The song became a tribute to faith, love, and the human spirit. Its success proved that stadium-sized songs could also hold deeply personal truths.
5. They Turned Global Success Into a Shared Celebration
Once Upon a Time produced four major singles and led to an unforgettable world tour. With Robin Clark and percussionist Sue Hadjopoulos joining the live lineup, the band delivered a full-force experience. Their concerts became more than performances—they became affirmations of connection, unity, and sound. Every show felt like a celebration of everything the band had built together.
Once Upon a Time lifted Simple Minds to new heights—not by changing who they were, but by embracing every part of their journey. The sound was bigger, the voice was stronger, and the belief was everywhere. This was the moment Simple Minds took everything they had and shared it with the world—and the world was ready.