Bananarama Still Haven’t Heard Taylor Swift’s ‘Cruel Summer’

‘Cruel Summer’ by Taylor Swift dominated the Billboard charts, but this title holds a special place in pop music history for another reason. Back in 1983, the legendary British group Bananarama released their own hit single ‘Cruel Summer,’ years before Swift was even born.

While Bananarama, consisting of founding members Keren Woodward and Sara Dallin, are aware of Swift’s song which explores a very different theme than theirs, they haven’t actually listened to it yet.  “It’s a great title,” Dallin acknowledges, but admits, “I haven’t gotten around to listening to it.” Woodward echoes this sentiment, expressing surprise that she hasn’t heard it yet despite being a fan of Swift’s work.

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Bananarama’s ‘Cruel Summer’ rocketed to fame in the US thanks to its inclusion on the soundtrack of the iconic film ‘The Karate Kid’ in 1984. Co-written by the band members themselves along with producers Steve Jolley and Tony Swain, the song became their first Top 10 hit in America and remains a defining track in their career.

Demonstrating their enduring popularity, Bananarama continues to keep ‘Cruel Summer’ a vital part of their live experience.

This special event coincides with the release of their latest greatest hits collection, titled ‘Glorious’.

Fans can expect a journey through the band’s 80s golden age, with tracks like the infectious dance anthem ‘Venus,’ the heart-wrenching ballad ‘Love in the First Degree’ and of course, the ever-present ‘Cruel Summer.’

-Sushmita Sarkar