“Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God)” is one of Kate Bush’s most iconic and critically acclaimed songs, released in August 1985 with “Under the Ivy” on the B-side as the lead single from her album Hounds of Love. The song became a major hit, reaching No. 3 on the UK Singles Chart upon its initial release and later experiencing a massive resurgence in 2022 after being featured in the popular TV series Stranger Things. This renewed popularity saw the song re-enter the charts worldwide, even reaching No. 4 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, making it one of Bush’s biggest hits decades after its release.
The song’s lyrics deal with themes of empathy, relationships, and the desire to understand another person’s perspective. In “Running Up That Hill,” Bush imagines making a deal with God to swap places with a loved one, to experience life through their eyes and understand their pain or struggles. This concept explores the difficulties and complexities of relationships, where emotional barriers often prevent true understanding.
Musically, the song is driven by a pulsating, synth-heavy production that creates an atmospheric and haunting feel. It features a distinctive drum machine beat and lush, layered synthesizers, combined with Bush’s ethereal and expressive vocals. The track’s intensity builds throughout, capturing the emotional weight of the lyrics. The song’s blend of art pop, electronic music, and Bush’s unique vocal style made it stand out in the mid-1980s music landscape.
“Running Up That Hill” was originally titled “A Deal with God,” but Bush’s record label requested a change to avoid religious controversy in some markets. Despite this, the song’s spiritual and philosophical themes remain central to its impact.
The song was critically acclaimed upon its release and has since been regarded as one of Kate Bush’s greatest achievements, noted for its emotional depth, innovative production, and thought-provoking lyrics. The 2022 revival of the song through Stranger Things introduced it to a new generation, proving its timeless appeal and cementing its status as a classic.