Pepsi & Shirlie – Heartache:
Shiny Hooks and a Breakup You Can Dance To
Released in January 1987 as the lead single from their debut album All Right Now, “Heartache” marked the official launch of Pepsi & Shirlie as a duo, stepping out from Wham!’s spotlight with a punchy, dance-pop anthem that was anything but shy.
Written by Tambi Fernando, Iris Fernando and Wayne Brown, it wasn’t just a catchy debut. It was a well-crafted pop statement—complete with polish, punch, and a touch of post-Wham! attitude.
From Backing Vocals to Center Stage
Before launching their own act, Shirlie Holliman and Helen “Pepsi” DeMacque were best known as Wham!’s backing singers. When George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley called it quits in 1986, the timing was perfect for the duo to strike out on their own. “Heartache” was their first move—and it landed hard.
Sad Song, Fast Beat
The song’s message is clear: heartbreak hurts, and they’re not sugarcoating it. “It’s a fool’s game, it’s a shame-shame, it’s a heartache and I feel the pain…” It’s emotional, but not fragile. The delivery is strong, with both singers trading lines and harmonies that feel more defiant than defeated.
The synths bounce, the beat kicks, and the chorus lands with all the drama of a glitter-streaked dance floor confession. Pepsi and Shirlie’s vocals are tight and expressive, delivering vulnerability with just enough edge to keep things empowered rather than weepy.
Built by Pros, Remixed by Legends
The original production was handled by Phil Fearon and Tambi Fernando, both of whom brought a smooth, radio-ready sheen to the track. Their version gave Heartache its pulse: clean synth-pop with a splash of funk and soul influence underneath.
For the 12″ version, the song was remixed by Pete Hammond and Stock Aitken Waterman, giving it even more dancefloor heat. Their touch amplified the rhythm and made it a club favorite—though the heart of the track was already fully formed in the original mix.
Chart Heat and a Familiar Rival
“Heartache” climbed to No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart, blocked from the top spot by none other than George Michael, whose duet with Aretha Franklin—“I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)”—held firm at No. 1. The irony wasn’t lost on Shirlie, who later joked about being proud and frustrated at the same time.
The single also hit the Top 10 in Ireland, Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and New Zealand. The remix version performed well on American dance charts, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Dance Club Play ranking.
Why It Still Works
Heartache doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel—it just makes it spin better. It’s clean, catchy, and emotionally honest without being heavy. You can dance to it, sing along with it, or just let it hit on a playlist full of glossy ’80s gems.
“Heartache” remains Pepsi & Shirlie’s biggest hit and a defining moment in their short but memorable run. It’s a snapshot of two artists stepping out on their own, armed with hooks, harmonies, and just enough edge to make it stick.