“What Have I Done to Deserve This?” is a collaboration between the British synth-pop duo Pet Shop Boys and legendary British singer Dusty Springfield, released in August 1987 with “A New Life” on the B-side. The song served as the second single from the Pet Shop Boys’ second studio album, Actually. Written by Neil Tennant, Chris Lowe, and Allee Willis, the track combines the Pet Shop Boys’ signature synth-driven pop sound with Springfield’s soulful vocals. It became a massive commercial success, reaching No. 2 on both the UK Singles Chart and the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S., and is regarded as one of the duo’s most iconic songs.
The collaboration between the Pet Shop Boys and Dusty Springfield marked a significant moment in both artists’ careers. Tennant and Lowe, fans of Springfield’s music, specifically her 1960s hits, felt that her smoky, emotive voice would perfectly complement the melancholic yet danceable sound of “What Have I Done to Deserve This?” Springfield, who had been largely out of the public eye, was initially hesitant but agreed after hearing the song and being reassured of its quality. Her involvement not only revived her career but also brought an emotional depth to the track that made it stand out from other synth-pop hits of the era.
The lyrics of “What Have I Done to Deserve This?” explore themes of regret, love lost, and emotional disconnection in a troubled relationship. The narrator reflects on the struggles of maintaining a partnership and questions what led to the current state of unhappiness. Lines like “Since you went away, I’ve been hanging around” and “What have I done to deserve this?” encapsulate feelings of longing, confusion, and self-doubt. The song is a quintessential synth-pop track infused with elements of soul and R&B, creating a dynamic and engaging soundscape. It features lush, layered synthesizers, a groovy bassline, and subtle orchestral flourishes that elevate its dramatic tone. Springfield’s vocal performance, rich with emotion, contrasts with Tennant’s more detached, deadpan style, resulting in a captivating blend that underscores the emotional push-and-pull of the narrative.
“What Have I Done to Deserve This?” was a massive commercial hit. In the UK, it peaked at No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart, and in the U.S., it also reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of the Pet Shop Boys’ biggest American hits. In the United States, the song also topped Billboard Dance Club Songs and Cash Box Top 100 Singles charts. “What Have I Done to Deserve This?” charted well internationally, reaching the top 5 in countries like Canada, Germany and Spain. Its success significantly boosted Dusty Springfield’s career, leading to a resurgence in her popularity during the late 1980s and early 1990s.
The music video for “What Have I Done to Deserve This?” features Dusty Springfield and the Pet Shop Boys performing on a theater stage, with a blend of moody lighting, dramatic curtains, and choreographed dancers. The video was filmed at the O2 Brixton Academy in London.