“Suburbia” was released on September 22, 1986 as the fourth and final single from their debut album, Please. The song became one of their early hits and is noted for its catchy melody and insightful lyrics. “Suburbia” was inspired by the 1984 film Suburbia, directed by Penelope Spheeris, which depicted the lives of suburban punk rock teenagers. The song reflects themes of suburban life, tension, and the underlying sense of discontent that can exist in seemingly idyllic residential areas. It captures the contrast between the peaceful appearance of suburbia and the often turbulent reality beneath the surface.
The song is characterized by its upbeat tempo, prominent synthesizer riffs, and catchy chorus. The lyrics of “Suburbia” paint a vivid picture of suburban life, blending imagery of tranquility with hints of underlying chaos and restlessness. The song’s structure and production reflect the Pet Shop Boys’ signature style, combining electronic music with insightful and often witty lyrical content.
“Suburbia” was released in several versions, including the “Full Horror” mix, which is longer and features additional instrumental sections. The single version was a re-recording with a more polished production compared to the album version. This version helped the song achieve greater commercial success.
“Suburbia” was well received by both critics and the public. It became a commercial success, reaching the top ten in many European conutires, including No. 2 in Germany and Spain, and No. 8 on the UK Singles Chart. The song’s success helped solidify Pet Shop Boys’ reputation as one of the leading synth-pop acts of the 1980s.
The music video for “Suburbia” was directed by Eric Watson and featured scenes of suburban life intercut with footage of riots and urban unrest, reflecting the song’s themes of contrast and underlying tension. The video added a visual dimension to the song’s narrative, emphasizing the dichotomy between the peaceful facade of suburban neighborhoods and the turmoil that can exist within them.
“Suburbia” remains a significant track in the Pet Shop Boys’ discography. It is frequently included in their greatest hits compilations and is a staple of their live performances. The song’s blend of catchy pop music with thought-provoking lyrics exemplifies the duo’s ability to address social themes within the context of mainstream pop music. Overall, “Suburbia” is remembered as one of the defining songs of the Pet Shop Boys’ early career, showcasing their talent for creating music that is both commercially appealing and intellectually engaging.