Story Behind The Song
Released in 1985, “We Close Our Eyes” was the debut single from Go West and introduced the duo of Peter Cox and Richard Drummie to a wide audience. Taken from their self-titled debut album, the song immediately established their distinctive blend of polished pop, blue-eyed soul and rock. Written by Cox and Drummie and produced by Gary Stevenson, it became the perfect introduction to a partnership that would enjoy considerable success throughout the decade.
The lyrics explore themes of hope, determination and believing in dreams despite uncertainty. Rather than focusing on romance alone, the song encourages resilience and optimism, suggesting that faith in the future can overcome doubt and fear. Peter Cox’s soulful and powerful lead vocal is complemented by Richard Drummie’s crisp guitar work, shimmering keyboards and an energetic rhythm section, creating a rich and uplifting sound. The memorable chorus and polished production helped distinguish the track from many of its contemporaries.
“We Close Our Eyes” laid the foundations for Go West’s successful career and demonstrated the duo’s gift for combining sophisticated songwriting with commercial appeal. Their polished musicianship and strong melodies quickly earned them a reputation as one of Britain’s finest pop acts of the mid-1980s. Today, the song remains one of Go West’s signature recordings, celebrated for its infectious energy, timeless production and memorable hooks. It continues to enjoy regular radio airplay and stands as one of the defining British pop singles of the decade, capturing the optimism and musical craftsmanship that made the era so memorable.
The song peaked at No. 05 in the UK charts on 13th April 1985.
Eighties Archive Song Number
Highest Chart Position
Date Released
Genre
Date Of UK Top 40 Entry
Record Label
Catalogue Number
A-SIDE & B-SIDE COVERS
TRACK LISTING
| A-Side |
We Close Our Eyes (3:41)
(Peter Cox, Richard Drummie)
Produced By Gary Stevenson
|
| B-Side |
Missing Persons (5:26)
(Peter Cox, Richard Drummie)
Produced By Gary Stevenson
|
CHART PERFORMANCE
| UK Top 40 Chart Run [10 Weeks] – 9th March 1985 – 11th May 1985 |
OFFICIALLY RELEASED VERSIONS
We Close Our Eyes (Single Version) (3:41)
We Close Our Eyes (Total Overhang Mix) (6:41)
We Close Our Eyes (Total Overhang Club Mix) (5:56)
OFFICIAL VIDEO
LYRICS
Inside, everyone hides one desire
Outside, no one would know
Danger, close to the edge of the knife
Safer not to let go
And while we miss chances
You can almost hear time slipping away
We close our eyes, we never lose a game
Imagination never lets us take the blame
We close our eyes to see the final frame
We close our eyes to time slipping away
No show, Wednesday girl waits with the wine
She knows just what to say
While no one listens
You can almost hear time slipping away
We close our eyes, we never lose a game
Imagination never lets us take the blame
We close our eyes to see the final frame
We close our eyes and
We can talk to strangers
We are burning with the spark
And we can walk on water
We are tigers in the dark
We are burning
We close our eyes
Heroes never give in to the night
He knows how far he can run
And as he surrenders
You can almost hear time slipping away
We close our eyes, we never lose a game
Imagination never lets us take the blame
We close our eyes to see the final frame
We close our eyes
We close our eyes, we never lose a game
Imagination never lets us take the blame
We close our eyes to see the final frame
We close our eyes
We close our eyes, we walk on water
Lets us take the blame
We are burning
Talk to strangers
Written by Peter Cox, Richard Drummie

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