“Holding Back the Years” is a song by the British band Simply Red, released in November 1985 (and re-issued in May 1986). It is one of the band’s most successful and enduring hits, featured on their debut album, “Picture Book.” The song stands out for its soulful melody and poignant lyrics, which helped to establish Simply Red as a prominent act in the mid-1980s.
The song was primarily written by the band’s lead singer, Mick Hucknall, with additional contributions from Neil Moss, a former member of Hucknall’s earlier band, The Frantic Elevators. “Holding Back the Years” was initially conceived years before Simply Red was formed, reflecting Hucknall’s personal experiences and emotions.
“Holding Back the Years” explores themes of loss, reflection, and the passage of time. The lyrics convey a deep sense of longing and introspection, with Hucknall reflecting on his troubled childhood and the feelings of abandonment he experienced. The chorus, with its repeated line “I’ll keep holding on,” underscores the theme of resilience and the struggle to move forward despite past hardships.
The song features a blend of soul, jazz, and pop elements, characterized by Hucknall’s emotive vocal performance and the band’s smooth instrumental backing. The arrangement includes a prominent saxophone solo by band member Ian Kirkham, adding to the song’s soulful feel. The understated production and heartfelt delivery contribute to the song’s powerful emotional impact.
The music video for “Holding Back the Years” was directed by Tony van den Ende. It focuses on Mick Hucknall, who walks through the English countryside carrying luggage and thinking about his childhood memorie The vidoe was filmed near Whitby Abbey, North Yorkshire and Goathland railway station in Scotland.
“Holding Back the Years” was a significant commercial success, particularly in the United States, where it reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in July 1986. It also performed well in the UK, peaking at number two on the UK Singles Chart, and charted in several other countries. The song’s success played a crucial role in the overall popularity of the “Picture Book” album and helped to launch Simply Red’s career.