“Is There Something I Should Know?” is a hit single by British band Duran Duran, released in March 1983 as a standalone single. Written by the band’s members Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes, John Taylor, Roger Taylor, and Andy Taylor, the track became the group’s first No. 1 single on the UK Singles Chart, cementing their status as one of the leading acts of the early 1980s. It was later included on the 1983 U.S. reissue of their self-titled debut album (Duran Duran). The song combines the band’s signature new wave sound with a more polished production, showcasing their knack for creating infectious hooks and sleek, danceable grooves.
“Is There Something I Should Know?” was recorded during a break between the band’s tours and the release of their second studio album, Rio (1982). At this point, Duran Duran had already achieved significant success with tracks like “Hungry Like the Wolf” and “Save a Prayer,” but “Is There Something I Should Know?” marked their first single specifically written and released to capitalize on their growing popularity.
The song was targeted at both UK and U.S. audiences, with the latter still catching up to the band’s earlier hits. It was released as a standalone single and wasn’t initially tied to any album, making its success even more notable.
The lyrics of “Is There Something I Should Know?” reflect themes of uncertainty, miscommunication, and emotional frustration. The song is a quintessential example of new wave music, featuring Duran Duran’s signature blend of synth-driven melodies, funk-inspired basslines, and crisp guitar riffs. The production by the band and Ian Little is sleek and radio-friendly, with a vibrant energy that makes the track both catchy and emotionally engaging.
“Is There Something I Should Know?” was a commercial triumph. It debuted at No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart, becoming the band’s first chart-topping single in their home country. In the United States, it reached No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking one of their earliest major successes in the U.S. market.
The song’s popularity helped bridge the gap between the release of Rio and the band’s third studio album, Seven and the Ragged Tiger (1983), maintaining their momentum as global pop icons.