“Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now)” is a song by British singer-songwriter Phil Collins, released in Ferbruary 1984 with “The Search” by Larry Carlton and Michel Colombier on the B-side. It was the theme song for the Taylor Hackford’s movie Against All Odds and became one of Collins’ most iconic ballads.
The song is a powerful piano-driven ballad, featuring Collins’ heartfelt vocals and emotional delivery. The arrangement is simple, with the piano and strings gradually building to create a dramatic, poignant atmosphere. The song highlights Collins’ ability to express vulnerability and raw emotion through his voice. The lyrics describe the pain and heartbreak of losing a loved one, with the narrator pleading for another chance in the relationship. The song conveys deep feelings of regret and longing, with the repeated refrain “Take a look at me now” emphasizing the emptiness and desperation of the narrator.
“Against All Odds” was a major commercial success reachin No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States, becoming Collins’ first No. 1 solo hit there. The song also topped the singles chart in Canada, and charted highly in several other countries, including the UK (#2) and Australia (#3).
“Against All Odds” remains one of Phil Collins’ most beloved songs and is widely regarded as one of the greatest breakup ballads of the 1980s. Its emotional depth and memorable melody have ensured its place as a timeless classic. The song has been covered by several artists over the years, but Collins’ original version is still the most iconic.