Breathe was an English pop band that rose to prominence in the late 1980s with their smooth blend of soft rock, adult contemporary, and polished pop production. Formed in London by David Glasper, Marcus Lillington, Ian “Spike” Spice, and Michael Delahunty, the group became known for their emotive songwriting and sleek, radio-friendly sound. Their breakout hits—most notably “Hands To Heaven,” “How Can I Fall?,” and “Don’t Tell Me Lies”—showcased Glasper’s distinctive vocals and the band’s knack for crafting heartfelt, melodic ballads that resonated with international audiences.
Although their time in the spotlight was relatively brief, Breathe left a lasting mark on late-’80s pop, remembered for their warm musical style and enduring, romantic anthems.
Breathe’s 1987 single “Hands To Heaven” is a beautifully crafted soft-pop ballad that showcases the band’s signature emotional warmth and understated elegance. Led by David Glasper’s smooth, heartfelt vocals, the track blends gentle synth textures, delicate percussion, and a soaring melodic hook that captures a sense of longing and vulnerability.
Its polished production and romantic atmosphere helped the song become an international hit, reaching major chart success in both the UK and the US. “Hands To Heaven” remains Breathe’s most enduring and recognizable song—a timeless slow-burn classic that continues to resonate with listeners drawn to its quiet intensity and emotional depth.
The song peaked at No. 04 in the UK Singles Chart on 27th August 1988.
| A-Side | Hands To Heaven (4:19) (D. Glasper, M. Lillington) Produced By Bob Sargeant |
| B-Side | Life And Times (4:46) (D. Glasper, M. Lillington) Produced By Breathe |
| Genre | Electronic, Pop, Downtempo, Ballad |
| Release Date | 11th July 1988 |
| Label | SIREN |
| Catalogue Number | SRN 68 |
| Date Of UK Top 40 Entry | 6th August 1988 |
| Highest Chart Position | No. 04 |
| Weeks In UK Top 40 | 09 |
| UK Top 40 Chart Run [9 Weeks] – 6th August 1988 – 1st October 1988 |
Officially Released Versions
Hands To Heaven (Single Version) (4:19)
Hands To Heaven (Extended Heaven) (6:23)
Versions On Spotify
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Lyrics
As I watch you move
Across the moon-lit room
There’s so much tenderness in your loving
Tomorrow, I must leave
The dawn knows no reprieve
God, give me strength when I am leaving
So raise your hands to heaven and pray
That we’ll be back together someday
Tonight, I need your sweet caress
Hold me in the darkness
Tonight, you calm my restlessness
You relieve my sadness
As we move to embrace
Tears run down your face
I whisper words of love so softly
I can’t believe this pain
It’s driving me insane
Without your touch
Life will be lonely
So raise your hands to heaven and pray (And pray)
That we’ll be back together someday
Tonight, I need your sweet caress
Hold me in the darkness
Tonight, you calm my restlessness
You relieve my sadness
Tonight, I need your sweet caress
Hold me in the darkness
Tonight, you calm my restlessness
You relieve my sadness
Morning has come, another day
I must pack my bags and say
Goodbye, goodbye
Tonight, I need your sweet caress (Oh whoa)
Hold me in the darkness (Darkness)
Tonight, you calm my restlessness (Oh whoa)
You relieve my sadness (Sadness)
Tonight, I need your sweet caress (Oh whoa)
Hold me in the darkness
Tonight, you calm my restlessness (You calm my restlessness)
You relieve my sadness
No, no, whoa
Oh, oh, oh whoa
Written by D. Glasper, M. Lillington
