“Wouldn’t It Be Good” is a hit song by British singer-songwriter Nik Kershaw, released in January 1984 as the second single from his debut album, Human Racing. Written by Kershaw himself, the song is known for its synth-driven sound, introspective lyrics, and catchy melody. It became one of his most successful singles, reaching No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart and performing well internationally, helping to establish Kershaw as a prominent figure in 1980s pop music.
“Wouldn’t It Be Good” was written during a period when Kershaw, a relatively new artist, was establishing himself in the British music scene. The song captures a feeling of yearning and frustration, inspired by Kershaw’s personal experiences and his observations of life’s challenges. Despite its upbeat tempo and danceable beat, the song’s lyrics reflect themes of emotional struggle and disillusionment.
The lyrics of “Wouldn’t It Be Good” express a desire to escape life’s difficulties and live in someone else’s shoes. Lines like “Wouldn’t it be good to be in your shoes, even if it was for just one day” convey a sense of yearning and envy, imagining a simpler or more fulfilling existence. The repeated refrain “I got it bad, you don’t know how bad I got it” reflects the narrator’s emotional frustration and the human tendency to idealize others’ lives while feeling burdened by one’s own. Musically, “Wouldn’t It Be Good” is a quintessential synth-pop track, characterized by its driving synth bassline, layered keyboards, and catchy guitar riffs. The song’s production combines electronic elements with rock-inspired guitar work, creating a unique sound that was both fresh and radio-friendly in the 1980s.
“Wouldn’t It Be Good” was a commercial success, reaching No. 2 in Germany, and No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart. In the U.S., it achieved modest success, gaining popularity on alternative and college radio. The song’s success helped drive the popularity of Kershaw’s Human Racing album, which went on to achieve gold certification in the UK. The track became one of Kershaw’s most enduring hits and remains a staple of 1980s music compilations.
The music video for “Wouldn’t It Be Good” is famous for its innovative use of chroma key (green screen) effects, which were groundbreaking at the time. Directed by Storm Thorgerson, the video features Kershaw as an alien in a metallic suit, walking through various surreal, digitally generated landscapes. These visual effects were notable in the 1980s, adding a futuristic touch that aligned with the song’s yearning for a different reality.