“Karma Chameleon” is one of Culture Club’s most famous songs, released in September 1983 with “That’s the Way (I’m Only Trying to Help You)” on the B-side as the second single from their multiplatinum second album Colour by Numbers. Written by the band’s lead singer Boy George, along with other band members, the song became a massive international hit, topping the charts in 16 countries, including the UK and the U.S., where it reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. It remains one of the most recognizable and defining songs of the 1980s.
Lyrically, “Karma Chameleon” is about the idea of inconsistency and deceit, where Boy George sings about a person who is changeable and unreliable, much like a chameleon that changes its colors. The song’s title plays on the concept of “karma,” implying that what goes around comes around, especially when people aren’t true to themselves or others. Boy George has described the song as a warning about the consequences of dishonesty in relationships, whether personal or in society at large.
Musically, “Karma Chameleon” is a bright, upbeat pop song with elements of new wave and reggae, typical of Culture Club’s signature sound. It features catchy harmonica lines, a lively tempo, and a sing-along chorus, giving it a breezy, feel-good vibe that contrasted with the more introspective lyrics. The band’s blend of pop, soul, and Caribbean influences helped the song stand out during the 1980s, making it danceable and radio-friendly.
The song’s accompanying music video, directed by Peter Sinclair, added to its popularity. It features the band on a riverboat on the Thames River in a 19th-century-style setting, with colorful costumes and a festive atmosphere. Boy George, with his flamboyant style and distinctive look, became an icon of the 1980s, and the video was regularly played on MTV, further boosting the song’s visibility and appeal. It was filmed at Desborough Island in Weybridge.
“Karma Chameleon” was not only a commercial success but also earned Culture Club Brit Awards for Best British Group, Best British Single, and the Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 1984. The song spent six weeks at No. 1 in the UK and became one of the top-selling singles of the decade.
Over the years, “Karma Chameleon” has remained a staple of 80s music nostalgia and is still frequently played on radio and at retro-themed events. Its infectious melody, catchy chorus, and universal message about staying true to oneself have made it a timeless classic. The song helped solidify Culture Club’s status as one of the most popular and influential bands of the 1980s.