“Avalon” is a mesmerizing and atmospheric song by Roxy Music, released in June 1982 as the title track and second single from their eighth and final studio album, Avalon. Written by Bryan Ferry, the song is a dreamy and sophisticated blend of art rock, pop, and soul, showcasing the band’s evolution into a more refined and ambient sound in their later years.
The song’s lyrics are inspired by the Arthurian legend of Avalon, a mythical island symbolizing paradise and ultimate peace. Ferry weaves this mystical theme into a personal and romantic narrative, creating an aura of longing and transcendence.
Musically, “Avalon” is characterized by its lush and ethereal arrangement. The track features Ferry’s smooth, understated vocals set against a backdrop of gentle synthesizers, soft guitar lines, and a subtle yet driving rhythm. The standout element is the haunting background vocals provided by Yanick Étienne, a Haitian singer whose wordless melody adds a layer of enchantment and otherworldliness to the song.
“Avalon” received widespread critical acclaim and became a defining track in Roxy Music’s career. While it did not chart as highly as some of their earlier singles, it remains one of their most beloved and enduring songs, celebrated for its elegance and emotional resonance. The album Avalon itself was a commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the UK Albums Chart and achieving multi-platinum status.