While Animotion will always be most associated with their breakout hit “Obsession,” their 1986 single “I Engineer” deserves some serious love, too. Released as part of their second album, Strange Behavior, the track proved the band wasn’t a one-hit wonder when it came to delivering sleek, infectious synth-pop.
Behind the Sound: Powerhouse Songwriters and Polished Production
Written by an all-star trio—Mike Chapman, Bernie Taupin (Elton John’s longtime lyricist), and Holly Knight (behind hits for Tina Turner, Pat Benatar, and more)—“I Engineer” came packed with songwriting pedigree. Richie Zito handled production duties, bringing a clean, punchy sound full of layered synths, a driving beat, and the band’s signature dual vocals from Bill Wadhams and Astrid Plane.
The lyrics tackle themes of control, manipulation, and power dynamics in a relationship, with lines like:
“Don’t count on me, I engineer on every move we make from here / I’ll take the lead, you take the pain you see, I engineer this game.”
It’s a bold, slightly dark twist that fits perfectly with the sleek ’80s production.
Chart Performance: Modest in the US, Massive in Europe
“I Engineer” didn’t reach the same heights as “Obsession” in the U.S., peaking at #76 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #27 on the Dance/Disco Club Play chart. But overseas, it hit big—reaching #2 in Germany, #4 in South Africa and #6 in Switzerland. The song’s music video, filmed in Blackheath, England, included sweeping views of London, giving it some added European flair.
Legacy: A Synth-Pop Favorite for the Fans Who Know
Today, “I Engineer” is considered a fan favorite and cult classic among ’80s music lovers. While it may not be as widely recognized as “Obsession,” its crisp production, smart lyrics, and strong performances have kept it alive in playlists, compilations, and synth-pop retrospectives. It’s a great example of how Animotion had more to offer than just one big hit.