Good Thing by Fine Young Cannibals is a high-energy, retro-inspired pop song that became one of the band’s biggest hits. Released in April 1989 with “Social Security” on the B-side as the second single from their album The Raw & the Cooked, it topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. The track combines a Motown-influenced rhythm with modern pop sensibilities, showcasing the band’s unique style.
Fine Young Cannibals, a British band formed in 1984, included Roland Gift (vocals), Andy Cox (guitar), and David Steele (bass). Known for their eclectic sound blending pop, soul, and rock, the band achieved widespread fame with their sophomore album, The Raw & the Cooked. Good Thing was co-written by Steele and Cox, with production emphasizing a lively and danceable beat. The song drew inspiration from 1960s soul and R&B, giving it a nostalgic feel while remaining fresh for the late 1980s pop scene.
The song’s lyrics celebrate a joyful, romantic connection, expressing optimism and excitement about a burgeoning relationship. The protagonist marvels at how this “good thing” has come into their life, capturing the thrill of love in its early stages. The upbeat tone of the song contrasts slightly with the reflective undertones of the lyrics, giving it an emotional depth beneath its energetic surface.
Good Thing was a commercial success. It was their second and final US number-one, topping the Billboard Hot 100 on 8 July 1989. It also topped the RPM chart in Canada, and peaked at #7 on the UK Singles Chart. The song’s success contributed significantly to the multi-Platinum status of The Raw & the Cooked and solidified Fine Young Cannibals’ reputation as one of the most innovative bands of their time.