About the song
“We Don’t Talk Anymore” stands as a pivotal track in Cliff Richard’s career, marking a significant return to the top of the charts and solidifying his place in music history during the late 1970s. Penned by Alan Tarney and initially intended for his own project with the Tarney/Spencer Band, the song found its way to Cliff Richard through a stroke of fate during a recording break with Bruce Welch of the Shadows.
Released in 1979, this single not only ascended to the number one spot on the UK Singles Chart but also became a global sensation. Its success was unprecedented, reigniting Richard’s popularity and demonstrating his enduring appeal across decades. The song’s recording at RG Jones Recording Studios in Wimbledon was swift, reflecting the immediate recognition of its hit potential by both Welch and Richard’s manager, Peter Gormley.
Originally conceived as a stop-gap release between albums, “We Don’t Talk Anymore” surpassed expectations, becoming a cornerstone of Richard’s discography despite initial reservations about its fit with his upcoming album, “Rock ‘n’ Roll Juvenile.” Despite this, its undeniable popularity led to its inclusion, setting a precedent for Richard’s subsequent albums, including “I’m No Hero” and “Wired for Sound,” both of which benefited from Alan Tarney’s production expertise.
The single’s enduring appeal is underscored by its commercial achievements. Achieving gold certifications in the UK and West Germany, it topped charts across Europe and reached the top ten in the United States, a rare feat for British artists of the era. Its longevity on the Billboard Hot 100 also solidified Richard’s status as a transatlantic success story, bridging generations with his music.
Moreover, “We Don’t Talk Anymore” holds a unique place in music history as one of the inaugural videos aired on MTV’s launch day in 1981, further extending its cultural impact beyond radio airwaves. Its timeless melody and poignant lyrics about lost love resonated with audiences worldwide, making it a classic example of Richard’s ability to connect emotionally through his music.
In essence, “We Don’t Talk Anymore” not only revived Cliff Richard’s career but also reaffirmed his stature as a versatile artist capable of adapting to evolving musical landscapes while retaining his distinctive charm and musicality. Its legacy continues to inspire new generations of listeners, cementing its place as a quintessential piece of pop music history.
Video
Lyrics
Used to think that life was sweet
Used to think we were so complete
I can’t believe you’d throw it away
Used to feel we had it made
Used to feel we could sail away
Can you imagine how I feel today?
Well, it seems a long time ago
You were the lonely one
Now it comes to letting go
You are the only one
Do you know what you’ve done?
It’s so funny how we don’t talk anymore
It’s so funny, why we don’t talk anymore?
But I ain’t losing sleep and I ain’t counting sheep
It’s so funny how we don’t talk anymore
Oh, we don’t talk, ooh
Well, it really doesn’t matter to me
I guess your leaving was meant to be
It’s down to you now, you wanna be free
Well, I hope you know which way to go
You’re on your own again
Don’t come crying to me when you’re the lonely one
Remember what you’ve done
Oh, it’s so funny how we don’t talk anymore
It’s so funny, why we don’t talk anymore?
But I ain’t losing sleep and I ain’t counting sheep
No, no, no
It’s so funny how we don’t talk anymore, anymore
Oh, we don’t talk anymore
Ooh, we don’t talk anymore
But I ain’t, no, losing sleep
No, I ain’t counting sheep
No, no, no, no
It’s so funny how we don’t talk anymore, anymore
Oh, we don’t talk, oh, we don’t talk