11 Underrated Tears for Fears Songs: The Underrated

Hey there, music enthusiasts and fellow DJs! It’s TBone here from Level Tunes, and I’ve got something special for you today.

As a dedicated DJ and a hardcore music fan, I’ve always been fascinated by the unique soundscapes that shape our musical experiences.

Today, I’m diving into the underrated world of Tears for Fears, a band that has profoundly influenced the music industry with their innovative sound.

While many know their chart-toppers, I want to shine a spotlight on 11 of their songs that have slipped under the radar.

These tracks, in my opinion, encapsulate the essence of the band’s creative genius, yet haven’t received the recognition they truly deserve.

So, let’s embark on this melodious journey and rediscover the hidden gems of Tears for Fears, tunes that have resonated with me and I believe will captivate you too.

Get ready to explore the depths of their discography and find out why these tracks are absolute must-listens for every music lover out there!

Here are the underrated Tears for Fears songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Tears for Fears Songs

Underrated Tears for Fears songs in a list format:

“The Working Hour”

Album: Songs from the Big Chair (1985)
Record Label: Phonogram, Mercury
“The Working Hour” is a mesmerizing track from Tears for Fears’ critically acclaimed album “Songs from the Big Chair.” Released in 1985 under Phonogram and Mercury labels, this song showcases the band’s flair for combining poignant lyrics with rich, atmospheric soundscapes. The song’s authorship, a collective effort by Roland Orzabal, Ian Stanley, and Manny Elias, reflects in its intricate composition. One of the reasons I chose this song is its hypnotic saxophone intro, played by Mel Collins, which sets a mood unlike any other in their discography. It’s a profound piece that delves into the struggles of the working class, resonating with many yet often overshadowed by the album’s more popular hits.

“I Believe”

Album: Songs from the Big Chair (1985)
Record Label: Phonogram, Mercury
“I Believe” is a heartfelt track from the same album as “The Working Hour.” This song is unique because it’s a direct tribute to the jazz legend Robert Wyatt, a fact that many fans might not be aware of. Released under the Phonogram and Mercury labels, it’s a testament to Roland Orzabal’s versatility as a songwriter and vocalist. The song’s gentle, almost haunting melody contrasts beautifully with the album’s otherwise energetic vibe. I selected this track for its emotional depth and the way it showcases Tears for Fears’ ability to experiment with different genres, blending them seamlessly into their sound.

“Swords and Knives”

Album: The Seeds of Love (1989)
Record Label: Fontana, Phonogram
“Swords and Knives” from “The Seeds of Love” album, released in 1989 under Fontana and Phonogram, is a song that deserves more spotlight for its intricate narrative and composition. Written by Orzabal and Nicky Holland, this track delves into the complexities of human relationships and conflicts. Its layered instrumentation, featuring Oleta Adams on keyboards, adds a richness that complements the song’s profound lyrics. I chose this song for its ability to weave a compelling story through its melody, a quality that often goes unnoticed in the band’s more commercially successful tracks.

“Memories Fade”

Album: The Hurting (1983)
Record Label: Mercury, Phonogram
“Memories Fade,” from the album “The Hurting,” is a hauntingly beautiful piece that was released in 1983 under Mercury and Phonogram. This track, primarily written by Roland Orzabal, stands out for its introspective lyrics and the emotional depth it carries. The song’s exploration of loss and the fragility of memory is both poignant and relatable. The reason behind my choice of this song is its raw emotional power and the way it combines synth-pop with deeply personal storytelling, a hallmark of Tears for Fears’ early work.

“The Big Chair”

Album: Songs from the Big Chair (1985)
Record Label: Phonogram, Mercury
“The Big Chair,” a lesser-known track from the album “Songs from the Big Chair,” is a hidden gem that showcases the band’s experimental side. Released in 1985 under Phonogram and Mercury, this song, authored by Orzabal and Stanley, is an auditory delight with its mix of spoken word, eclectic sound effects, and a captivating rhythm section. I included this track for its innovative approach to song composition, demonstrating Tears for Fears’ willingness to push the boundaries of conventional pop music.

“Badman’s Song”

Album: The Seeds of Love (1989)
Record Label: Fontana, Phonogram
“Badman’s Song,” from the album “The Seeds of Love,” is a masterclass in musical storytelling, released in 1989 under

Fontana and Phonogram. Authored by Orzabal and bassist John Macintosh, this track stands out for its bluesy feel, a departure from the band’s typical sound. The song features an impressive array of musicians, including Phil Collins on drums, which adds a distinctive texture to the track. I chose “Badman’s Song” for its exceptional narrative quality and the seamless integration of different musical styles, showcasing the band’s versatility and creativity in songwriting and arrangement.

“Broken”

Album: Songs from the Big Chair (1985)
Record Label: Phonogram, Mercury
“Broken” is a track from “Songs from the Big Chair,” released in 1985 under Phonogram and Mercury. This song, written by Orzabal, is notable for its live, raw energy, a contrast to the polished production of other tracks on the album. It’s a part of a medley on the album, leading directly into “Head Over Heels,” which makes it unique. My reason for choosing “Broken” lies in its energetic vibe and the way it captures the essence of the band’s live performances, providing a glimpse into a different facet of their musical prowess.

“The Conflict”

Album: The Hurting (1983)
Record Label: Mercury, Phonogram
“The Conflict,” from the debut album “The Hurting,” released in 1983 under Mercury and Phonogram, is a testament to the band’s early exploration of psychological and emotional themes. Authored by Orzabal, this track delves into internal struggles and personal turmoil. The song’s stark, minimalistic arrangement complements its introspective lyrics, creating a powerful emotional impact. I find “The Conflict” compelling for its lyrical depth and the way it represents the darker, more introspective side of Tears for Fears.

“Brian Wilson Said”

Album: Elemental (1993)
Record Label: Mercury
“Brian Wilson Said,” from the album “Elemental” released in 1993 under Mercury, is a tribute to the Beach Boys’ frontman, Brian Wilson. This track, penned by Orzabal, stands out for its harmonious melodies reminiscent of the Beach Boys’ style. The inclusion of rich vocal harmonies and a vibrant, uplifting tune makes it a standout track on the album. My reason for including “Brian Wilson Said” is its homage to classic pop harmonies and its joyful, upbeat sound, showcasing the band’s ability to pay respect to their musical influences while creating something uniquely their own.

“Elemental”

Album: Elemental (1993)
Record Label: Mercury
The title track of the album “Elemental,” released in 1993 under Mercury, is an underrated gem that demonstrates the band’s evolution in sound. Written by Orzabal, this song features a more guitar-driven sound compared to their earlier synth-pop style. The track’s dynamic range and powerful lyrics addressing environmental and social issues make it particularly impactful. I selected “Elemental” for its bold message and the way it highlights the band’s continued relevance and adaptability in the changing musical landscape.

“Fish Out of Water”

Album: Elemental (1993)
Record Label: Mercury
“Fish Out of Water,” another track from “Elemental,” is a deeply personal song written by Orzabal following the departure of Curt Smith from the band. Released in 1993 under Mercury, the song stands out for its emotive lyrics and compelling melody. The track’s exploration of themes of isolation and change is both poignant and relatable. I chose this song for its heartfelt honesty and the way it reflects a significant moment in the band’s history, offering a glimpse into the emotional depth behind their music.

Fun Facts: Underrated Tears for Fears Songs

“The Working Hour”

• Saxophone Solo: The captivating saxophone intro in “The Working Hour” is performed by Mel Collins, who has also worked with other famous bands like King Crimson and Camel. This saxophone piece is often praised for setting a deeply emotional tone right at the start of the song.
• Recording Process: This song is known for its complex recording process. The band layered multiple tracks to create its rich, atmospheric sound, a technique that was quite advanced for its time and contributed significantly to the song’s depth.

“I Believe”

• Tribute to Robert Wyatt: “I Believe” is a tribute to Robert Wyatt, the English musician and founding member of the band Soft Machine. This is a unique aspect of the song, as it showcases Tears for Fears’ appreciation for other artists and their influences.
• Live Performance: Roland Orzabal often performed “I Believe” live with an acoustic guitar, which is a departure from the band’s usual synth-driven style, offering a more intimate and raw version of the song.

“Badman’s Song”

• Phil Collins’ Contribution: Phil Collins, the drummer and lead singer of Genesis, played drums on “Badman’s Song.” His involvement added a distinct flair to the track, blending well with Tears for Fears’ style.
• Live Performances: During live performances, “Badman’s Song” often featured extended instrumental sections, showcasing the band’s and supporting musicians’ improvisational skills, making each performance unique.

“Broken”

• Live Recording: Unlike most studio tracks, “Broken” was primarily recorded live in the studio. This approach captured the raw energy of the band’s performance, a quality that’s palpable in the track.
• Seamless Transition: In the album “Songs from the Big Chair,” “Broken” seamlessly transitions into “Head Over Heels,” creating a continuous musical experience that was quite innovative for a pop album at that time.

“Brian Wilson Said”

• Beach Boys Inspiration: The song is not only a tribute to Brian Wilson but also stylistically inspired by the Beach Boys. The harmonies and melody are reminiscent of the Beach Boys’ signature sound, making it a loving homage to the classic band.
• Unique Among Peers: “Brian Wilson Said” stands out in Tears for Fears’ catalogue for its distinct pop harmony and upbeat vibe, differing from the band’s typically more introspective and moody tracks.

And there you have it, fellow music lovers! We’ve journeyed through the lesser-known tracks of Tears for Fears, uncovering the hidden gems that make their music truly timeless. From haunting sax solos to heartfelt tributes, each song tells a unique story. Keep exploring and let the music play on!

Thanks for reading.

TBone