Europe, the Swedish rock band formed in 1979 by vocalist Joey Tempest and guitarist John Norum, rose to global fame in the 1980s with their anthemic blend of melodic hard rock and soaring hooks. Initially part of the Scandinavian heavy metal scene, the band broke through internationally with their 1986 album The Final Countdown, whose title track became a worldwide hit and remains one of the most recognizable songs of the decade. Known for their powerful musicianship, dynamic performances, and polished production, Europe delivered a string of hits, including “Rock The Night” and “Carrie.”
While their success peaked during the height of 80s arena rock, the band has continued to record and tour, evolving their sound while maintaining the melodic strength that first defined them. With millions of albums sold and an enduring legacy, Europe stands as one of Sweden’s most successful and iconic rock exports.
Europe’s “The Final Countdown” is one of the most iconic rock anthems of the 1980s — a song that instantly gets hearts racing and fists in the air. Released in 1986, it features that unforgettable synth riff, soaring vocals from Joey Tempest, and a sense of pure, stadium-sized drama.
Originally written as a concert opener, the track became a global phenomenon, topping charts in 25 countries and turning Europe into international rock stars. With its mix of glam-metal energy and space-age flair, “The Final Countdown” has stood the test of time, still igniting sporting events, movies, and nostalgic playlists around the world. It’s a perfect slice of 80s excess — bold, triumphant, and utterly unforgettable.
The song peaked at No. 01 in the UK charts on 6th December 1986.
| A-Side | The Final Countdown (3:59) (Joey Tempest) Produced By Kevin Elson |
| B-Side | On Broken Wings (3:38) (Joey Tempest) Produced By Kevin Elson |
| Genre | Rock, Pop, SynthPop |
| Release Date | 13th October 1986 |
| Label | EPIC |
| Catalogue Number | A 7127 |
| Date Of UK Top 40 Entry | 8th November 1986 |
| Highest Chart Position | No. 01 |
| Weeks In UK Top 40 | 12 |
| UK Top 40 Chart Run [12 Weeks] – 8th November 1986 – 21st January 1987 |
Officially Released Versions
The Final Countdown (Single Version) (3:59)
The Final Countdown (Album Version) (5:10)
Versions On Spotify
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Lyrics
We’re leaving together
But still it’s farewell
And maybe we’ll come back
To earth, who can tell?
I guess there is no one to blame
We’re leaving ground
Will things ever be the same again?
It’s the final countdown
The final countdown
Ohh
We’re heading for Venus and still we stand tall
‘Cause maybe they’ve seen us and welcome us all, yea
With so many light years to go and things to be found
(To be found)
I’m sure that we all miss her so
It’s the final countdown
The final countdown
The final countdown
(The final countdown)
Ohh ho ohh
The final countdown, oh ho
It’s the final countdown
The final countdown
The final countdown
(The final countdown)
Ohh
It’s the final countdown
We’re leaving together
The final countdown
We’ll all miss her so
It’s the final countdown
(The final countdown)
Ohh, it’s the final countdown
Yea
Written by Joey Tempest
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