Dee C. Lee – “See the Day”: A Soulful Leap into the Spotlight
Released on 21 October 1985, “See the Day” marked a defining moment in Dee C. Lee’s transition from backing vocalist to solo artist. Paired with “The Paris Match” on the B-side, the single became her biggest hit, later featured on her 1986 debut album Shrine. With its elegant blend of soul and pop, the track showcased Lee’s expressive voice and songwriting prowess, earning her a place among the standout British vocalists of the mid-1980s.
From Backing Vocals to Center Stage
Born Diane Catherine Sealy, Dee C. Lee had already built a strong reputation performing with Wham! and The Style Council, the latter of which she joined in 1984. Her solo breakthrough with “See the Day” was a bold artistic statement, written by Lee herself and produced by Brian Robson. The B-side, “The Paris Match,” featured Style Council members including Paul Weller, whom Lee would later marry in 1987.
A Lush and Emotive Soundscape
While the music landscape in late 1985 was dominated by synthpop, big ballads, and over-the-top production, See the Day stood out by going in the opposite direction. It was stripped back, slow, and emotionally direct—a soul-tinged pop ballad built on gentle piano, subtle orchestration, and Lee’s expressive, crystal-clear vocals. The production is refined and cinematic, with Ian Ritchie on saxophone and Steve Sherin on guitar. The song’s soulful balladry is elevated by Lee’s warm, vulnerable vocal delivery, which conveys both strength and longing.
Lyrics of Hope and Heartache The lyrics explore themes of emotional healing and romantic uncertainty. Lines like: “Will you ever see the day / Heartache leads astray / Good love will always come from me…” reflect a yearning for recognition and connection. Lee’s performance is intimate and sincere, offering a message of hope wrapped in melancholy.
Chart Success and Cultural Impact
“See the Day” peaked at No. 3 on the UK Singles Chart, staying in the Top 10 for several weeks. It also charted in Ireland (No. 3), Australia (No. 5), Belgium, New Zealand, and West Germany, selling over 250,000 copies and earning a silver certification. The song remains Lee’s only UK Top 40 hit, but its success firmly established her as a solo artist.
Legacy and Covers
In 2005, Girls Aloud released a cover of “See the Day,” produced by Brian Higgins and Xenomania, which reached No. 9 in the UK. While the cover received mixed reviews, it introduced the song to a new generation and underscored its enduring appeal.