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 1982 single “Instinction” captures the band at a transitional moment, blending the edgy, synth-driven energy of their early New Romantic sound with the polished pop sophistication that would soon define their biggest hits. Produced in its hit version by Trevor Horn, the track gained a brighter, more rhythmic makeover, spotlighting Tony Hadley’s powerful vocals against crisp percussion, lively basslines, and vibrant melodic hooks.
The result is a dynamic, radio-friendly song that highlights the group’s evolving musical confidence and versatility. “Instinction” remains an essential part of Spandau Ballet’s catalog—stylish, spirited, and reflective of their shift toward a more mainstream, chart-ready sound.
The song peaked at No. 10 on the UK Singles Chart on 15th May 1980.
| A-Side | Instinction (3:34) (Gary Kemo) Produced By Richard James Burgess, Trevor Horn |
| B-Side | Gently (3:54) (Gary Kemp) Produced By Spandau Ballet |
| Genre | Rock, Pop, SynthPop |
| Release Date | 2nd April 1982 |
| Label | CHRYSALIS |
| Catalogue Number | CHS 2602 |
| Date Of UK Top 40 Entry | 24th April 1982 |
| Highest Chart Position | No. 10 |
| Weeks In UK Top 40 | 08 |
| UK Top 40 Chart Run [8 Weeks] – 17th April 1982 – 19th June 1982 |
Officially Released Versions
Instinction (Single Version) (3:34)
Instinction (Remix) (6:58)
Instinction (Album Version) (4:51)
Versions On Spotify
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Lyrics
Cheap bed, in the red
Sleep the words out of your head
Cold floor, nice and raw
Eat the meat that’s on the floor
High tide, some disguise
Loving makes the cream taste nice
New shore, final score
On fresh demand, I’m wanting more
This might not last too long
So always take it
This might not last too long
So take it
Reasons, reasons were here from the start
It’s my instinction, it’s my instinction
Reasons, reasons were part of the art
It’s my instinction, it’s my instinction
You cry, justify
But deep beneath the feelings lie
Photo, looking old
Memory makes the day feel cold
They’ve gone, sing your song
Walk the flow, ah, too slow
Post boom, second doom
Stealing cake to eat the moon
This might not last too long
So always take it
This might not last too long
So take it
Reasons, reasons were here from the start
It’s my instinction, it’s my instinction
Reasons, reasons were part of the art
It’s my instinction, it’s my instinction
It’s my instinction, hey
Cheap bed, in the red
You cry, justify
Post boom, second doom
Stealing cake to eat the moon
Reasons, reasons were here from the start
It’s my instinction, it’s my instinction
Reasons, reasons were part of the art
It’s my instinction, it’s my instinction
It’s my instinction, ohh
Stealing cake to eat the moon
Written by Gary Kemp
