Limahl’s solo debut reissued on recycled lavender vinyl

Originally released in November 1984, Limahl’s debut solo album Don’t Suppose is to be reissued on recycled lavender vinyl to celebrate its 40th anniversary.

Limahl said: “The album was co-produced by British producer Tim Palmer, who has since worked with music legends like U2, Robert Plant, Bowie, and Tears For Fears. I rarely listen to it, but as this anniversary approached, I dared to stream it. It was extremely poignant because, at the time, I was in love with the wrong person.

“My young self was having the time of his life professionally but hurting a great deal personally. The upside is that the heartache provided good material for songwriting, hence a track on the album entitled I Was A Fool.”

The NeverEnding Story

The song Only For Love, the first single released from the album, peaked at No.16 on the UK Singles Chart in late 1983. Second release, Too Much Trouble, failed to reach the UK Top 40, however, third single The NeverEnding Story, made No.4, stayed in the Top 10 for five weeks, and charted in 17 countries.

As well as featuring in the film of the same name (which is being revived for the big screen once more), The NeverEnding Story more recently found a whole army of new fans when it appeared in the final episode of the third season of Stranger Things. Set in 1985, the song is sung by Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo) and his long-distance girlfriend Suzie (Gabriella Pizzolo) as a way to reconnect after not seeing each other for some time. Following the season’s release on July 4, 2019, interest in the track surged; viewership of the original music video had increased by 800% within a few days according to YouTube, while Spotify reported an 825% increase in stream requests for the song.

Strange Times

But as Limahl explains, the track’s popularity goes beyond Stranger Things and that love and appreciation is not lost on him… “In 2022, I travelled to Madrid for the opening night of the new stage musical adaptation La historia interminable – El Musical and performed the song with the cast at the end of the show. After its successful 12-month run in Madrid, the show is now running in Barcelona, and I can’t help but wonder if the producers plan to translate it to English for the West End or Broadway.

“For the European Championships 2024, ITV created a stunning animated clip featuring a classical instrumental version of the song.”

Not Too Shy [Shy]

Further reflecting on the album Limahl goes on: “I can’t believe it’s been 40 years, yet sometimes it feels like yesterday! Looking back now, it’s surreal to think that at just 24 years old, being born and raised on a Wigan council estate with no family connections in the music business, I was thrust into a whirlwind of travel and appearances to promote my music worldwide via TV, radio, and press – long before the internet.

“I’m excited to imagine where and how the song will continue its journey. It’s amazing that it still feels relevant 40 years on. I’m not too shy to say how immensely proud I am of its achievements.”

To be released on 6 September, it is available for pre-order here.

Read More: Limahl interview: Stranger things have happened

Want more from Classic Pop magazine? Get a free digital issue when you sign up to our newsletter!