“First Time” is a song by American singer Robin Beck, released in July 1988. The track became an international hit after being used in a Coca-Cola commercial, and it is Beck’s most well-known song. Written by Gavin Spencer, Tom Anthony, Tand erry Boyle, “First Time” reached No. 1 in several countries, including the UK, Germany, and Switzerland, establishing Beck as a one-hit wonder on the global music scene.
“First Time” is a romantic pop ballad that describes the overwhelming emotions of falling in love for the very first time. The lyrics focus on the joy, excitement, and intensity of new love. Musically, “First Time” is a classic 1980s pop-rock ballad, featuring a smooth, atmospheric production with a soft rock edge. The song is built around melodic keyboards, gentle guitar riffs, and a steady rhythm section that emphasizes the ballad’s romantic nature. Beck’s powerful, yet tender vocals carry the song, adding emotional depth and sincerity to the lyrics. The production, characteristic of 1980s pop, has a polished, radio-friendly sound with a focus on catchy melodies and lush arrangements that highlight the song’s emotional impact.
“First Time” gained widespread recognition after it was used in a Coca-Cola commercial in Europe, which significantly boosted its popularity. The ad featured the song as the soundtrack to a romantic scene, making it synonymous with the feelings of love and nostalgia associated with the brand. The commercial was so successful that it catapulted the song into the charts across Europe, leading to its release as a single.
Following its exposure in the Coca-Cola ad, “First Time” became a major international hit. The song reached No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart in November 1988, where it stayed for three weeks. It also topped the charts in several other countries, including Germany, Switzerland, and Norway, and performed well across Europe. Despite its huge success internationally, the song had more moderate success in the U.S.
There were two different filmed music videos for the “First Time”. The first one features the Robin Beck and the band peforming on the stage, the other version is a “concept”, mostly black and white video.