Step into the vibrant world of early 80s new wave with a video that perfectly captures the charm and quirky energy of its era.
The Song
"Love Plus One" is arguably the most recognizable hit from the British new wave band Haircut 100. Released in 1982, the song is a quintessential piece of sophisticated pop, blending catchy melodies with a distinctive jazzy-funk influence that set Haircut 100 apart from many of their contemporaries. The track features a bright, upbeat tempo, prominent saxophone lines, and the smooth, charismatic vocals of frontman Nick Heyward. Its intricate arrangement and sun-drenched feel made it an instant classic, reflecting the optimistic spirit often found in early 80s pop.
The Artist
Haircut 100 formed in Beckenham, South East London, in 1980. The original lineup featured Nick Heyward (vocals, guitar), Graham Jones (guitar), Les Nemes (bass), Phil Smith (saxophone), Mark Fox (drums), and Blair Cunningham (percussion, later drums). They quickly garnered attention with their smart, preppy image and an accessible sound that combined new wave sensibilities with funk and jazz elements. Their debut album, Pelican West, released in 1982, was a critical and commercial success, largely driven by the popularity of "Love Plus One" and other singles. However, despite their initial success, Nick Heyward departed for a solo career shortly after the album's release, leading to a shift in the band's direction and eventual decline in mainstream visibility.
Chart Performance
"Love Plus One" was a significant commercial success for Haircut 100, particularly in their home country. The single peaked at No. 3 on the UK Singles Chart in 1982, solidifying their status as one of the prominent new acts of the time. Beyond the UK, the song also found international appeal, reaching No. 37 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. This cross-continental success helped propel their debut album, Pelican West, to a No. 2 peak on the UK Albums Chart and No. 31 on the Billboard 200.
Cultural Impact
"Love Plus One" and Haircut 100 left a distinct mark on early 1980s pop culture, embodying a fresh, sophisticated aesthetic. The band's crisp, clean-cut image, often featuring brightly colored sweaters and sharp suits, was as much a part of their appeal as their music. This look became influential, contributing to the "preppy" style that permeated fashion during the era. The song itself, with its infectious groove and feel-good vibe, perfectly encapsulated the optimism and innovation of the new wave movement, standing out for its musicality beyond simple synth-pop.
The track's enduring popularity is evident in its continued airplay on 80s radio stations and its presence in various compilations. It remains a beloved anthem of its time, instantly transporting listeners back to an era of bright, intelligent pop music and distinctive visual styles.
Fun Facts
- The music video for "Love Plus One" features the band performing in a stylized, somewhat surreal setting, characteristic of early MTV-era videos.
- Nick Heyward wrote "Love Plus One" when he was just 20 years old.
- Despite the band's relatively short time in the spotlight with their original lineup, Pelican West is considered a defining album of the sophisti-pop and new wave genres.
- The band briefly reunited with Nick Heyward for a 25th-anniversary tour and shows in the late 2000s and 2010s, performing their classic hits.
- The title of their debut album, Pelican West, was a phrase Nick Heyward saw written on a wall.
- The song has been featured in various films and TV shows, cementing its status as an iconic 80s track.