In August 1985, British art rock musician Kate Bush released what would become one of her most well-known and widely-covered songs – the haunting, hypnotic “Running Up That Hill.” The track was the first single off her massively successful album Hounds of Love. Though it only reached number 30 on the UK Singles Chart at the time, the song has gained immense popularity and acclaim over the ensuing decades thanks to its mystical soundscape, Bush’s soaring vocals, and emotionally evocative lyrics.
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Cinematic Legacy
“Running Up That Hill” has cemented its status as a legendary song by being featured in numerous films, shows and ads. The song accompanied pivotal scenes in shows like GLOW, The Handmaid’s Tale, Stranger Things and It’s a Sin among others – scenes where characters grappled with identity issues and harsh realities. Connecting with audiences across generations through its thought-provoking theme, the song continues finding vast new listeners.
Resurgence on the Charts
Proof of the song’s enduring magic came in summer 2022 when a remixed version of Bush’s iconic banger found runaway viral success after being featured in Stranger Things season 4. The song captivated new fans; Gen Z listeners, in particular, fell in love with the version’s pulsating, synth-forward sound. Over 37 years after its initial release, a new extended remix of “Running Up That Hill” rocketed to #1 on music charts around the world – sparking appreciation anew for Bush’s avant-garde artistry.
An Anthem Transcending Time
Few songs have managed to maintain – or grow – their popularity as profoundly as “Running Up That Hill” has. Kate Bush’s singular musical creation keeps finding wider audiences and renewed resonance with its poetic lyrics on conflict, understanding, and the heedlessness of passing judgment. Truly a unique anthem for the ages.
