Jean-Michel Jarre – “Oxygène, Pt. 4” (1989 Remix):
Synth Classic Gets a Penguin‑Powered Revival
Originally released in 1977 as a single from the groundbreaking Oxygène album, “Oxygène, Pt. 4” became Jean-Michel Jarre’s breakout hit, reaching No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart and introducing millions to his lush, analog synth soundscapes. Over a decade later, in 1989, Jarre gave the track a second life with a subtly modernized remix and a delightfully surreal music video — complete with marching penguins.
Why 1989 Was a Second Liftoff
To promote his Jarre Live album, Jarre released “Oxygène IV (New Version)” in 1989. While not a radical remix, the track was a refined re-recording that preserved the spirit of the original while enhancing its clarity and punch for the digital age. The remix was issued across multiple formats — 7-inch, 12-inch, and CD maxi-singles — and included additional tracks like “Industrial Revolution: Overture” and “September”.
Though it didn’t replicate the chart success of the original, the 1989 version still made a mark, reaching No. 65 on the UK Singles Chart and serving as a gateway for a new generation of electronic music fans.
The Penguin March: A Quintessential Jarre Visual
To accompany the remix, Jarre released an official music video that quickly became a fan favorite. Featuring animated penguins marching across icy landscapes, the video offered a whimsical, tongue-in-cheek contrast to the track’s cosmic ambiance. It was playful, surreal, and unmistakably Jarre — a perfect example of his ability to blend sonic futurism with visual eccentricity.
Sonic Anatomy: Vintage Gear, Still Alive
Despite the remix label, the 1989 version retained the iconic DNA of the original. The ARP 2600 synth still leads the melody, supported by the Eminent 310 Unique organ’s phaser-treated strings and the Korg Mini-Pops 7 drum machine’s hypnotic rhythm. The updated mastering gave the track a cleaner, more dynamic sound without sacrificing its analog warmth.
Chart Journey & Format Variations
The 1977 original remains Jarre’s most commercially successful single, topping charts across Europe and becoming a cornerstone of electronic music history. The 1989 remix, while more modest in chart performance, was released in collectible formats with updated artwork and served as a bridge between Jarre’s analog past and his digital future.
Legacy: Fresh Again in the Digital Age
The 1989 revival of “Oxygène, Pt. 4” proved that great electronic music doesn’t age — it evolves. By reintroducing the track with subtle sonic updates and a delightfully oddball video, Jarre reaffirmed his role as both a pioneer and a playful provocateur. Today, both versions stand as milestones: one a beacon of analog innovation, the other a charming reminder that even synth gods have a sense of humor.