Spandau Ballet is one of the defining bands of the 1980s, emerging from London’s burgeoning New Romantic scene with a polished blend of pop, soul, and sophisticated synth-driven style. Formed by brothers Gary and Martin Kemp along with Tony Hadley, Steve Norman, and John Keeble, the group became known for their sharp fashion aesthetic and impeccably crafted songs that bridged club culture and mainstream pop.
Their 1983 album True propelled them to international success, producing era-defining hits like “Gold” and the smooth, romantic title track. With lush production, powerful vocals, and a flair for emotional drama, Spandau Ballet helped shape the sound and image of ’80s pop, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the decade’s most elegant and influential acts.
Spandau Ballet’s 1981 single “Chant No. 1 (I Don’t Need This Pressure On)” is a defining moment in the band’s early career, showcasing their tight fusion of New Romantic style with funk-infused grooves. Built around a bold bassline, sharp brass accents, and Tony Hadley’s commanding vocals, the track captures the vibrant energy of London’s club scene while revealing the group’s growing musical ambition.
Its dance-driven rhythm and stylish production marked a shift toward a more expansive, experimental sound that set Spandau Ballet apart from their peers. “Chant No. 1” remains a standout in their catalog—rhythmic, confident, and emblematic of the band’s flair for combining fashion-forward attitude with innovative pop musicianship.
The song peaked at No. 03 in the UK Singles Chart on 1st August 1981.
| A-Side | Chant No. 1 (I Don’t Need This Pressure On) (4:06) (Gary Kemo) Produced By Richard James Burgess |
| B-Side | Feel The Chant (4:03) (Gary Kemp) Produced By Richard James Burgess |
| Genre | Electronic, New Wave, SynthPop |
| Release Date | 6th July 1981 |
| Label | CHRYSALIS |
| Catalogue Number | CHS 2528 |
| Date Of UK Top 40 Entry | 18th July 1981 |
| Highest Chart Position | No. 03 |
| Weeks In UK Top 40 | 08 |
| UK Top 40 Chart Run [8 Weeks] – 18th July 1981 – 5th September 1981 |
Officially Released Versions
Chant No. 1 (I Don’t Need This Pressure On) (Single Version) (4:06)
Chant No. 1 (I Don’t Need This Pressure On) (12″ Version) (5:52)
Chant No. 1 (I Don’t Need This Pressure On) (Remix) (8:03)
Feel The Chant [Instrumental] (7″ Version) (4:03)
Feel The Chant [Instrumental] (12″ Version) (5:49)
See ALL releases of ‘Chant No. 1 (I Don’t Need This Pressure On’ on Discogs.
Versions On Spotify
If you have an active Spotify account you will be able to play the complete versions of the songs below. If you don’t have an account, you will only be able to hear a 30-second sample.
Lyrics
I checked the time, it was almost time
A curious smell, an intangible crime
I’m washing my clothes, but the stain still grows
Cover your eyes, the stain still shows
I feel the gaze against my skin
I feel the gaze against my skin
I know this feeling is a lie
I know this feeling is a lie
There’s a guilt within my mind
There’s a guilt within my mind
I know this feeling is a lie
I know this feeling is a lie
I don’t need this pressure on
I don’t need this pressure on
I don’t need this pressure on
I don’t need this pressure on
I don’t need this pressure on
I don’t need this pressure on
Oh I should question not ignore
Oh I should question not ignore
Songs are always buried deep
Songs are always buried deep
There’s a lion in my arms
There is a motion in my arm
Oh I should question not ignore
I should believe and not ignore
I don’t need this pressure on
I don’t need this pressure on
I don’t need this pressure on
I don’t need this pressure on
I don’t need this pressure on
I don’t need this pressure on
You go down, down
Pass the talk of town
You go down Greek street
Then its underground
Well it’s Soho life
For this mobile knife
It’s the place to shoot
Friday night beat route
Written by Gary Kemp
