Culture Club, formed in London in 1981, became one of the most distinctive and successful bands of the 1980s, blending new wave, soul, reggae, and pop into a sound that was both innovative and accessible. Fronted by the charismatic Boy George, whose androgynous style and powerful vocals challenged traditional gender norms, the group quickly rose to international fame with hits like “Do You Really Want To Hurt Me,” “Karma Chameleon,” and “Time [Clock Of The Heart).” Their 1983 album Colour By Numbers became a global success, cementing their status as icons of the MTV generation. Known for their memorable songs, bold fashion, and cultural impact,
Culture Club not only defined much of the decade’s pop sound but also left a lasting legacy as pioneers of diversity and individuality in mainstream music.
Culture Club’s 1983 single “Victims” is one of the band’s most emotionally rich and sophisticated tracks, showcasing a dramatic shift from their upbeat pop hits to something far more introspective. Powered by a sweeping orchestral arrangement and Boy George’s deeply expressive vocals, the song unfolds like a cinematic confession—poignant, vulnerable, and beautifully heartfelt. “Victims” stands as a testament to the band’s musical range, revealing their ability to balance glamour with genuine emotional depth.
It remains a standout moment in their catalog, resonating with listeners who appreciate pop that dares to be both grand and honest.
The song peaked at No. 03 in the UK Singles Chart on 24th December 1983.
| A-Side | Victims (4:56) (Culture Club) Produced Trevor Bastow |
| B-Side | Colour By Numbers (3:57) (Culture Club) Produced Trevor Bastow |
| Genre | Electronic, Pop, SynthPop, Ballad |
| Release Date | 28th Novembr 1983 |
| Label | VIRGIN |
| Catalogue Number | VS 641 |
| Date Of UK Top 40 Entry | 10th December 1983 |
| Highest Chart Position | No. 03 |
| Weeks In UK Top 40 | 08 |
| UK Top 40 Chart Run [8 Weeks] – 10th December 1983 – 28th January 1984 |
Officially Released Versions
Victims (Single Version) (4:56)
Romance Revisited (Victims Orchestral Overdub) (4:58)
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
The victims we know so well
They shine in your eyes
When they kiss and tell
Strange places we never see
But you’re always there
Like a ghost in my dream
And I keep on telling you
Please don’t do the things you do
When you do those things
Pull my puppet strings
Have the strangest void for you
We love and we never tell
What places our hearts
In the wishing well
Love leads us into the stream
And it’s sink or swim
Like it’s always been
And I keep on loving you
It’s the only thing to do
When the angel sings
There are greater things
Can I give them all to you
Oh
Pull the strings of emotion
Take a ride into unknown pleasure
Feel like a child on a dark night
Wishing there was some kind of heaven
I could be warm with you, smiling
Hold out your hand for a while
The victims
We know them so well
So well
The victims we know so well
They shine in your eyes
When they kiss and tell
Strange places we never see
But you’re always there
Like a ghost in my dream
And I keep on telling you
Please don’t do the things you do
When you do those things
Pull my puppet strings
Have the strangest void for you
Oh
Show my heart some devotion
Push aside those that whisper never
Feel like a child on a dark night
Wishing we could spend it together
I could be warm with you, smiling
Hold out your hand for a while
The victims
We know them so well
So well
Written By Culture Club
