About the song
“We Don’t Talk Anymore” isn’t just a pop ballad; it’s a story of unexpected success and a pivotal moment in Cliff Richard’s career. Released in 1979, the song became a global phenomenon, topping the charts in the UK and propelling Richard back into the spotlight after a decade without a number one hit.
The song’s journey began with songwriter Alan Tarney, who envisioned it for his own band. However, fate intervened when Tarney played a demo for Bruce Welch, rhythm guitarist of The Shadows. Welch, recognizing the song’s potential, immediately contacted Richard’s manager, convinced that “We Don’t Talk Anymore” was destined for stardom. Recorded quickly in May 1979, the song embarked on a trajectory that would redefine Richard’s musical legacy.
“We Don’t Talk Anymore” was initially intended as a stopgap single, bridging the gap between albums. Richard even harbored reservations about including it on his “Rock ‘n’ Roll Juvenile” album, considering it a stylistic outlier. However, the song’s phenomenal success, reaching number one in the UK and remaining there for four weeks, forced a change of plans. The overwhelming popularity of “We Don’t Talk Anymore” not only cemented Richard’s comeback but also established him as the first artist to reach the US Billboard Hot 100’s top 40 in four consecutive decades.
The song’s impact transcended national borders. It topped charts across Europe, becoming Richard’s only English-language number one hit in Germany. Globally, “We Don’t Talk Anymore” sold over 4 million copies, solidifying its status as a commercial juggernaut. This resurgence marked a turning point for Richard, extending his career well into the 1980s and 1990s.
“We Don’t Talk Anymore” is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a testament to the power of collaboration and recognizing potential. From a chance encounter to a chart-topping phenomenon, the song’s story highlights the unpredictable nature of the music industry. Even today, “We Don’t Talk Anymore” continues to be a beloved classic, a reminder of Cliff Richard’s enduring influence and the enduring power of a well-crafted song.
Video
Lyrics
Used to think that life was sweet
Used to think we were so complete
I can’t believe you’d throw it away
Used to feel we had it made
Used to feel we could sail away
Can you imagine how I feel today?
Well, it seems a long time ago
You were the lonely one
Now it comes to letting go
You are the only one
Do you know what you’ve done?
It’s so funny how we don’t talk anymore
It’s so funny, why we don’t talk anymore?
But I ain’t losing sleep and I ain’t counting sheep
It’s so funny how we don’t talk anymore
Oh, we don’t talk, ooh
Well, it really doesn’t matter to me
I guess your leaving was meant to be
It’s down to you now, you wanna be free
Well, I hope you know which way to go
You’re on your own again
Don’t come crying to me when you’re the lonely one
Remember what you’ve done
Oh, it’s so funny how we don’t talk anymore
It’s so funny, why we don’t talk anymore?
But I ain’t losing sleep and I ain’t counting sheep
No, no, no
It’s so funny how we don’t talk anymore, anymore
Oh, we don’t talk anymore
Ooh, we don’t talk anymore
But I ain’t, no, losing sleep
No, I ain’t counting sheep
No, no, no, no
It’s so funny how we don’t talk anymore, anymore
Oh, we don’t talk, oh, we don’t talk