Howard Jones, an English singer, songwriter, and keyboardist, emerged in the early 1980s as one of the defining voices of synth-pop. With his upbeat, melodic sound and thoughtful lyrics, he quickly gained attention for hits like “New Song,” “What Is Love?” and the uplifting anthem “Things Can Only Get Better.” Known for his energetic performances and innovative use of synthesizers, Jones became a staple of the MTV era, bringing a sense of optimism and sophistication to electronic pop. His 1984 debut album Human’s Lib topped the UK Albums Chart, while his follow-up Dream Into Action brought him international success, particularly in the United States. Beyond commercial achievements, Jones is recognized for infusing his music with positive, philosophical themes that resonated deeply with audiences.
His influence on electronic and pop music remains enduring, with a legacy as both a chart-topping artist and a pioneer of thoughtful, synth-driven songwriting.
Howard Jones’s 1985 single “Life In One Day” is a vibrant, feel-good track that captures his trademark optimism and knack for catchy pop hooks. Featured on his hit album Dream Into Action, the song encourages listeners to live in the moment and not get bogged down by worries about the future. With its upbeat tempo, playful energy, and Jones’s warm vocals, it became a fan favorite and a Top 20 hit in the UK and US. “Life In One Day” remains a shining example of Jones’s ability to blend thoughtful messages with infectious, radio-friendly synth-pop.
The song peaked at No. 14 in the UK charts on 6th July 1985.
| A-Side | Life In One Day (3:39) (Howard Jones) Produced By Rupert Hine |
| B-Side | Boom Bap Respite (2:45) (Howard Jones) Produced By Howard Jones |
| Genre | Electronic, Pop, SynthPop |
| Release Date | 17th June 1985 |
| Label | WEA |
| Catalogue Number | HOW 8 |
| Date Of UK Top 40 Entry | 29th June 1985 |
| Highest Chart Position | No. 14 |
| Weeks In UK Top 40 | 05 |
| UK Top 40 Chart Run [5 Weeks] – 29th June 1985 – 27th July 1985 |
| 22-[14]-17-22-27 |
Officially Released Versions
Life In One Day [Single Version] [3:39]
Life In One Day [Part One] [6:50]
Life In One Day [Part Two] [7:14]
Versions On Spotify
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Lyrics
The old man said to me
Said don’t always take life so seriously
Play the flute
And dance and sing your song
Try and enjoy the here and now
The future will take care of itself somehow
The grass is never greener over there
Time will wear away the stone
Gets the hereditary bone
Don’t try to live your life in one day
Don’t go speed your time away
Don’t try to live your life in one day
Don’t go speed your time away
The old man said to me
Said you can’t change the world single-handedly
Raise a glass enjoy the scenery
Pretend the water is champagne
And fill my glass again and again
While the wolves are gathering round your door
Time will wear away the stone
Gets the hereditary bone
The old man said to me
Said don’t always take life so seriously
Play the flute
And dance and sing your song
Try and enjoy the here and now
The future will take care of itself somehow
The grass is never greener over there
Time will wear away the stone
Gets the hereditary bone
I tried to live my life in one day
Don’t go speed your time away
I bit off more than I can chew
Only so much you can do
Wolves are gathering round my door
Ask them in and invite some more
I tried to live my life in one day
Don’t go speed your time away
Written by Howard Jones
