Poptastic Confessions

Poptastic Confessions

Tuesday, March 12, 2024

Bananarama Deep Cuts Ranked

Dear Poptastic Readers,

Keep streaming Glorious: The Ultimate Collection by Bananarama as it is in the UK Top 10 for the midweeks! Leading up to the release, we asked 20 of our Bananarama fans to send us their Top 50 deep cuts ... these are non-singles. So they are album tracks, b-sides, bonus tracks, and one-offs. There were 115 songs to choose from.



A big thanks to Neil, Gary, Jay, Kenneth, Denny, Vincenzo, J Reed, Kevin, Normski, Chad, Pascal, Sebastian, Jason, Luke, Stu, Brian, David, Craig, Mike, and Davearama. We tabulated their Top 50 and calculated the numbers. We'll start with the songs the bottom of this list an work our way up to the top ...

Written by Lynval Golding, Terry Hall, and Neville Staples
Produced by Dave Jordan and Fun Boy Three

This song with Fun Boy Three was the b-side to "It Ain't What You Do (It's The Way That You Do It)." It is largely an instrumental track with some vocals by Bananarama singing "Funarama."


#114. “Amnesia” (1988)

Written and produced by Stock Aitken Waterman

 

A b-side to the single “I Want You Back.” This was also the theme for The Roxy, which was a short-lived music TV program in the UK. Sadly, this is not on streaming services.



Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, and Vaugh Toulouse

Produced by Fun Boy Three

 

This was a b-side to the single “Really Saying Something.” This has no lyrics, but there are vocals “ahhhhs” here and there. This is not on streaming services.



Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Bassey Walker, and Pascal Caubet

Produced by Pascal Caubet

 

This was from the album Exotica. It’s retro, a bit funky, and dreamy all at the same time.



#111. “Some Boys” (1990)

Written by unknown

Produced by David Z

 

This rare track appeared on a 2013 special edition of the album Pop Life. Not much is known about it other than it was produced by David Z probably around 1990. This song is not on streaming services.



#110. “Too Much Of A Good Thing” (1986)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Steve Jolley, and Tony Swain

Produced by Jolley & Swain

 

This was originally a song on the album True Confessions. It was removed to make way “Venus” and “More Than Physical.” It was eventually released on a 2013 re-release of True Confessions. It is a mid-tempo song that is very much of the time. This song is not on streaming services.



#109. “Vicious Circle” (1986)

Written and produced by Steve Jolley and Tony Swain

 

Exactly what we said with "Too Much Of A Good Thing" above. It's a bit a rougher sound for them, even a bit industrial sounding. This song is not on streaming services either.



#108. “U R My Baby” (2002)

Written by Sara Dallin, Bassey Walker, and Peter De Havilland

Produced by Harald Reitinger and Ulrich Fischer (Discobrothers)

 

This song was originally part of an album that Bananarama recorded in 1997 that was never released. However, this song was remixed and rerecorded with the Discobrothers for their album. Most fans prefer the edgy demo. This song is not on streaming platforms. 



#107. “Link” (1983)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Steve Jolley, and Tony Swain

Produced by Jolley & Swain

 

This interlude is from their second album. It is only 1:31. The shortest song in their repertoire. There is a slightly extended mix on the 12” of "Robert De Niro’s Waiting."



#106. “Starz” (2001)

Written by Sara Dallin, Bassey Walker, and Tony Moran

Produced by Pascal Caubet

 

Another track from Exotica. It’s a lively track with a nice melody and chorus. The music is a bit wonky, which is probably why it is so low in our countdown. Fun fact: There is a Tommer Mizrahi Remix that uses a different vocal track than the album version.



#105. “Extraordinary” (2009)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Ian Masterson, and Paul Harris

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This is from their album Viva. This is a very electro song with some computerized vocals. Keren takes the first verse and Sara sings the second verse. It has a big chorus that great for belting out. This is included in their new album Glorious: The Ultimate Collection.



#104. “Sleep” (2001)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Bassey Walker, and Paul Statham

Produced by Pascal Caubet

 

This song also appeared on the album Exotica. It was originally recorded in 1997 for their album that was never released. The demo version is absolutely beautiful. The version that was released has a counter melody in the music that competes too much with the vocal melody.



#103. “Cairo” (1983) 

Written by John Sandosa

Produced by Jolley & Swain

 

This was a 12” b-side to one of the biggest hits: “Cruel Summer.” The music is very mysterious. This is a remake originally recorded by Joyella Blade in 1978.



#102. “Maybe The Next Time” (1995)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Gary Miller, Paul Berry, and Steve Torch

Produced by Gary Miller

 

This slow RNB ballad from their album Ultra Violet was a change of pace in an album mostly full of Eurodance bangers. It's quite lovely and chill.



#101. “Push!” (1984)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Steve Jolley, and Tony Swain

Produced by Jolley & Swain

 

This was the b-side to “Robert De Niro’s Waiting.” It sounds like they are singing about a drug dealer.



#100. “S-S-S-Single Bed” (2009)

Written by Kenny Young

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This was from their album Viva. This electronica remake of the funky original recorded by Fox in 1976.





#99. “Twisting” (2009)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Michael Rose, and Nick Foster

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

Also from their album Viva. The vocals have definitely been run through the vocoder on this one. This music spirals in many loops and it is quite the interesting song.



#98. “Tell Me Tomorrow” (2009)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, and Ian Masterson

Produced by Ian Masterson


This the third song in a row from Viva. It’s a nice song with a good melody. Keren starts both verse, and Sara finishes both verses.



#97. “Clean Cut Boy (Party Size)” (1987)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, and Ian Curnow

Produced by Ian Curnow

 

This was a b-side to “I Heard A Rumour” and it is mostly an instrumental track with some sparce vocals taken from other tracks, and maybe some new ones, too. It is quite fun. Sadly, it is not on streaming platforms.





#96. “Ghost” (1985)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Patrick Seymour, and Phil Bishop

Produced by Patrick Seymour

 

This was the b-side to their single “Do Not Disturb.” It also one of the first tracks where there was actual solo vocals. It has spawed countless debates on who is singing which part.



 

#95. “Ecstasy (Wild Style)” (1987)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Mike Stock, Matt Aitken, and Pete Waterman

Produced by Stock Aitken Waterman

 

This was the b-side to “I Can’t Help It” in the UK and “Love In The First Degree” in the US. This is another largely instrumental track with some vocals here and there, mostly talking though. Sadly, it is not on streaming platforms.




#94. “Take Me Away” (1995)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Gary Miller, Paul Berry, and Steve Torch

Produced by Gary Miller

 

This beautiful mid-tempo ballad appears on their Ultra Violet album. It’s a sweet love song that just makes you feel good. A favourite line is: “How can I love you more? Heaven knows that you’re the one I’ve waited for.” Love it!



#93. “Scarlett” (1986)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Patrick Seymour, and Phil Bishop

Produced by Phil Bishop, Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, and Keren Woodward

 

This was the b-side to the single “More Than Physical.” This a bit more rocky than Bananarama had done to date. It has a lots of attitude.





#92. “Need A Little More Time” (2022)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, and Ian Masterson

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This is from their most recent studio album Masquerade. It is the one ballad on the album and it really is quite nice. 



#91. “Voyage Voyage” (2009)

Written by Dominique Dubois and Jean-Michel Rivat

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This remake of the Desireless 1986 classic French song was b-side to the 2009 “Love Comes” 7” single with Keren on the picture disc. It is the only song in French that Bananarama sing, and apparently their French is pretty good.



#90. “Hooked On Love” (1986)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Steve Jolley, and Tony Swain

Produced by Jolley & Swain

 

This album track from their 1986 album True Confessions is anti-drug anthem. 



#89. “Boom” (2001)

Written by Sara Dallin, Bassey Walker, and Peter De Havilland

Produced by Pascal Caubet

 

This track is from their album Exotica in 2001. However, Bananarama debuted a more electro version on their 1997 tour of Australia, and it was part of their 1997 album that was never released. The song was rerecorded for the Exotica album and given a disco remake.



#88. “It’s Gonna Be Alright” (2019)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, and Ian Masterson

Produced by Ian Masterson


This track is from their album In Stereo. It has the classic chorus “I wanted a cowboy by my side. I wanted a rodeo.” Having said that, it is not a country sounding song at all. It really is quite good and we thought it would be higher. It is also on Glorious: The Ultimate Collection.



#87. “Bad For Me” (1987)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Mike Stock, Matt Aitken, and Pete Waterman

Produced by Stock Aitken Waterman

 

This song is taken from their album WOW! It is a super cute upbeat song. It’s about being in love with someone who others think is no good.



#86. “In A Perfect World” (1986)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Steve Jolley, and Tony Swain

Produced by Jolley & Swain

 

This epic slow track is from their album True Confessions. It has a haunting melody and it is quite the long song as it clocks in at just over 6 minutes.



#85. “Moves Like Jagger” (2012)

Written by Adam Levine, Benny Blanco, Ammar Malik, and Shellback

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

Yes, their remake of the Maroon 5 and Christina Aguilera song came out in 2012 on their Now Or Never EP. It’s actually not a bad cover. It is very electro, and we were nervous for Bananarama to sing Christina’s part, but they scaled it back and it sounds great.



#84. “Rules Of Attraction” (2005)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Henri Korpi, and Mathias Wollo (Blackcell)

Produced by Korpi & Blackcell

 

The quirky track is from their album Drama. It’s electro funky with a big chorus. Fun fact: Keren had a very brief cameo in the 2002 film also called Rules Of Attraction.





#83. “Treat Me Right” (1992)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Mike Stock, and Pete Waterman

Produced by Mike Stock and Pete Waterman

 

This a b-side of their single “Movin’ On.” It’s mostly instrumental track with some light vocals that just repeat “Oooh. Treat me right and please me.” The music is quite uplifting with some house keyboards and a funky guitar.



#82. “Here Comes The Rain” (2010)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, and Ian Masterson

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This was the b-side to the 7” vinyl single for “Love Don’t Live Here” in 2010. It was later released digitally when the Viva album was rereleased with the Expanded Edition. This is one we thought would be higher, too.



#81. “White Train” (1986)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Patrick Seymour, and Phil Bishop

Produced by Patrick Seymour and Phil Bishop

 

This is the b-side to Bananarama’s biggest hit: “Venus.” The music sounds a bit light pop rock. The song really shines during the bridge.



#80. “Got To Get Away” (2019)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, and Ian Masterson

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This is a track from their album In Stereo. However, they had performed it live in Australia on their 2016 tour. It is a bit pop rock tune for them.



#79. “Tell Tale Signs” (1983)

Written and produced by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, and Keren Woodward

 

This was a b-side to their 1983 single “Na Na Hey Hey (Kiss Him Goodbye).” The music sounds a bit ska-light mixed with pop. It’s very shambolic. 



#78. “Run To You” (2009)

Written by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

Yes, this is a remake of the Bryan Adam’s 1984 classic. This was available as a bonus track when you downloaded the digital version of their album Viva



#77. “Let Me Love You One More Time” (1992)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Mike Stock, and Pete Waterman

Produced by Mike Stock and Pete Waterman

 

This from their album Please Yourself. Despite the sappy lyrics, it has a nice melody.



#76. “Girl About Town” (1982)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, and Keren Woodward

Produced by Barry Blue

 

This was a b-side side to the single “Cheers Then.” Keren once said in a reader’s poll that it was her least favourite record. It’s cute. It even has some cars honking.



#75. “Hey Young London” (1983)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Barry Blue, and Stan Shaw

Produced by Barry Blue

 

This is from their debut album Deep Sea Skiving. It had a very fun lyrics and melody.



#74. “System” (1995)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Gary Miller, and Steve Torch

Produced by Gary Miller

 

This song is from their 1995 album Ultra Violet. It is very Eurodance.



#73. “Riskin’ A Romance” (1987)

Written by Siobhan Fahey, Ollie Marland, and Paul Waller

Produced by Darryl Hall and Tom T-Bone Wolk

 

This deep cut is very odd. It only appeared on the soundtrack to the movie The Secret Of My Success. It was produced by Darryl Hall. Siobhan also sings the verses solo as she wrote the song. It was later released on the True Confessions re-release.



#72. “Only Time Will Tell” (1993)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Mike Stock, and Pete Waterman

Produced by Mike Stock and Pete Waterman

 

Another one from the Please Yourself album. It is quite a disco track with a great chorus.



#71. “Middle Of Nowhere” (2005)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, and Brian Higgins

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This glorious chill song is from their Drama album. The music sounds like you might be in rain forest. It is lovely. Fun fact: The original version of this song was recorded in 1997 and the music for it was used for Dannii Minogue’s song “Heaven Can Wait.”



#70. “Live Now” (1984)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Steve Jolley, and Tony Swain

Produced by Jolley & Swain

 

This was the b-side to their single “Rough Justice.” It definitely has an early 80s vibe to it.



#69. “I’m On Fire” (2019)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, and Ian Masterson

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This song is from their In Stereo album. Of course, it is not their first song to rhyme fire with desire. This song has a lot of energy with a big chorus that they belt out. You can also hear a live version of this song on their Live In Stereo album. 



#68. “Tokyo Joe” (2009)

Written by Brian Ferry

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This remake of the 1977 Bryan Ferry song was a b-side to the “Love Comes” 7” single with Sara on the picture disc. It’s electro funky.



#67. “Give In To Me” (1995)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Gary Miller, and Paul Berry

Produced by Gary Miller

 

This album track from Ultra Violet is very odd. The fast beat is what is referred to at the time as an electronic jungle beat. It is very fast, but the vocals are a bit slower and Sara and Keren give a very sultry delivery.



#66. “Doctor Love” (1983)

Written by Paul Weller

Produced by Barry Blue

 

This song is from their debut album Deep Sea Skiving. It was written by Paul Weller (The Jam/The Style Council). This may have the most “Woos” of any Bananarama song. It has uncredited male vocal in the end.



#65. “Another Lover” (1992)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Mike Stock, and Pete Waterman

Produced by Mike Stock and Pete Waterman

 

This fabulous campy song was a b-side to their single “Last Thing On My Mind.” It is a full-on disco stomper with strings and hilarious lyrics. We thought it would be much higher on the list.



#64. “A Cut Above The Rest” (1986)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Steve Jolley, and Tony Swain

Produced by Jolley & Swain

 

This cool song from the album True Confessions has lots of attitude. It has a fun and catchy chorus. 



#63. “I Don’t Care” (1988)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Mike Stock, Matt Aitken, and Pete Waterman

Produced by Stock Aitken Waterman

 

This song was originally recorded with producers Stock Aitken Waterman in 1988 after Jacquie had joined the group. It remained unreleased until it appeared on a 2013 deluxe release of the album Pop Life. However, this song is not on streaming platforms.



#62. “Come Back” (1987)

Written by Richard Feldman and Nick Trevisick

Produced by Stock Aitken Waterman

 

This song from the WOW! album was a bit mature for the group on a somewhat party album. 



#61. “Don’t Stop Me Now” (1995)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Gary Miller, and Paul Berry

Produced by Gary Miller

 

This hi-nrg stomper is from the Ultra Violet album. It is very much aimed directly on the dancefloor. It has the Eurodance beat, breathy verses, and a chorus that will have you singing along in no time.



#60. “Lovebite” (2005)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Henri Korpi, and Mathias Wollo (Blackcell)

Produced by Korpi & Blackcell

 

This edgy album track is from their album Drama. It’s very electro and the verse flow quite nicely. The chorus is a bit militant. 





#59. “Intoxicated” (2019)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, and Ian Masterson

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This was from their album In Stereo. It’s a mid-tempo pop song about falling in love with someone at first sight.



#58. “Bad Love” (2022)

Written by Sara Dallin, Alice Dallin-Walker, and Ian Masterson

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This song is from their most recent album Masquerade. It was written by Sara and her daughter Alice with producer Ian Masterson. It has a retro feel while being modern too.



#57. “Waterfall” (2005)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Henri Korpi, and Mathias Wollo (Blackcell)

Produced by Korpi & Blackcell

 

This is from their album Drama. It isn’t quite a ballad, but this mid-tempo chill track does pack the punch with a very catchy, sultry chorus.



#56. “Wish You Were Here” (1983)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward

Produced by Barry Blue

 

This charming song is from their debut album Deep Sea Skiving. It is very dreamy and the lyrics are about missing that someone special who got away. 



#55. “Promised Land” (1986)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Steve Jolley, and Tony Swain

Produced by Jolley & Swain

 

This song is from their True Confessions album. It’s a lovely song with a nice melody and chorus.



#54. “You’ll Never Know What It Means” (1993)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Mike Stock, and Pete Waterman

Produced by Mike Stock and Pete Waterman

 

This piano house pop song from their album Please Yourself has a prominent male vocal, as well as a lot of backup singers. It is a fun song! 



#53. “No Feelings” (1982)

Written by Paul Cook, Steve Jones, Glen Matlock, and Johnny Rotten

Produced by Richard Hartley

 

This remake of the 1977 Sex Pistols song was recorded for the soundtrack of the movie Party Party. You can hear their punk roots with this one!



#52. “Seventeen” (2009)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, and Ian Masterson

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This electro song is on Viva. Even the vocals are very electronic sounding. The chorus even mentions Marilyn Monroe. This was included on Glorious: The Ultimate Collection.


#51. “Young At Heart” (1983)

Written by Siobhan Fahey, Robert Hodgens, Sara Dallin, and Keren Woodward

Produced by Barry Blue

 

This song appears on their debut album Deep Sea Skiving album. Siobhan wrote the song with her then boyfriend Robert Hodgen, who would later record the track with his band The Bluebells in 1984. The Bluebells released their version as a single and it went to #8 in the UK. However, it was re-released in 1993 when their version was used in a Volkswagen commercial. It went back in the charts and went all the way to #1. 


#50. “Rapture” (2009)

Written by Nadia Ali and Markus Moser

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This remake of the 2001 iiO song is really well done. Bananarama released their electro dance version on their album Viva. It suits them well. Sara sings the first verse, and Keren sings the second verse. They even performed it live in 2009 at the Isle Of Wight.



#49. “Rhythm Of Life” (1995)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Gary Miller, Paul Berry, and Steve Torch

Produced by Gary Miller

 

This Eurodance banger is from their album Ultra Violet. It has dance beat with a lovely melody. We love that there is video footage of them performing this fun track.



#48. “Dum Dum Boy” (2009)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, and Ian Masterson

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This catchy song is from their album Viva. It is fun, fun, fun! It is an upbeat song that will make you want to dance around the room.



#47. “You’re Never Satisfied” (1993)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Mike Stock, and Pete Waterman

Produced by Mike Stock and Pete Waterman

 

This charming song is from their Please Yourself album. The lyrics are really quite clever. “If you play with fire, you'd better learnYou fool around, you get your fingers burned.” The chorus is a bop. 




#46. “Let’s Go Outside” (2022)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, and Ian Masterson

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This fun song is from their album Masquerade. You might want to snap your fingers during the first verse. The chorus is a sing-a-long event. The lyrics are about meeting someone for the first time.



#45. “Megalomaniac” (1991)

Written by Sara Dallin, Bassey Walker, Martin Glover (Youth), and Andy Caine

Produced by Youth

 

This funky track first appeared in an edited version as the b-side to "Preacher Man", released at the end of December in 1990. A longer version appears on their 1991 album Pop Life. Rumour has it that the lyrics are about producer Pete Waterman, but we don’t think that has ever been confirmed.



#44. “Your Love Is Like A Drug” (2005)

Written by Sara Dallin, Ian Masterson, and Terry Ronald

Produced by Ian Masterson and Terry Ronald

 

This amazing dance pop song is from their album Drama. What a banger! We absolutely love this. What a choon! We thought it would be much higher on the list.



#43 “Outta Sight” (1991)

Written by Sara Dallin, Martin Glover (Youth), and Andy Caine

Produced by Youth

 

Bananarama go rock with this track. It was first released as the b-side to the single “Long Train Running” in April of 1991. A month later, it was released as part of their album Pop Life. The guitar is so prominent here. The chorus is awesome.



#42. “Waterloo” (1998)

Written by Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeaus, and Stig Anderson

Produced by Steve Hillier

 

This remake of the ABBA classic was recorded for an album of Eurovision songs in 1998. Siobhan temporarily rejoined the group after a 10-year absence. The cover is a bit rocky and they made a hilarious music video for it. Fun fact: Sara and Keren also reunited with Siobhan at the 20th Anniversary Show and sang this song and “Venus.”



#41. “Brand New” (2022)

Written by Alice Dalling-Walker and James MacKenzie Robinson

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This is a remake of the Alice D song, and it was on their album Masquerade. Their version is a bit faster. We absolutely loved it when they performed it live with Alice D at their Masquerade album launch shows.



#40. “Time Out” (1995)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Gary Miller, Paul Berry, and Steve Torch

Produced by Gary Miller

 

This is from their album Ultra Violet. It’s a dance pop song that has that Eurodance beat. The verse and chorus are very well done.



#39. “I Love The Way” (2005)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, and Dru Masters

Produced by Ian Masterson and Terry Ronald

 

This album track from their album Drama starts off with an airplane flying overhead. It’s a fun, upbeat song that also sounds a bit laid back at the same time. We love it.



#38. “On Your Own” (2019)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, and Ian Masterson

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This ballad is from their album Masquerade. The lyrics are a mysterious. The music has a rich, majestic melody with lush vocals. 



#37. “I Could Be Persuaded” (1993)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Mike Stock, and Pete Waterman

Produced by Mike Stock and Pete Waterman

 

This RNB ballad sounds something like you’d have heard from Luther Vandross. We loved the change of pace for Bananarama. We love the Middle 8, and the male vocal toward the end. Thankfully, it is on Glorious: The Ultimate Collection.



#36. “I Can’t Let You Go” (1991)

Written by Sara Dallin, Martin Glover (Youth), and Andy Caine

Produced by Youth

 

This song actually surprised us being so high on the list. It is a funky mid-tempo track with a haunting melody on their album Pop Life. It clocks in at over 6-minutes long. It has some ad libs where you hear people talking in the background and laughing. The music is very similar to "Celebrate The Good Things" by Pleasure from 1978.



#35. “We’ve Got The Night” (2009)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, and Ian Masterson

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This is another one we thought would be higher on the list as it is a great dance pop song from the Viva album with a wonderful melody and a great vocal performance. “Baby I want you” is a classic line. This is euphoric.



#34. “Through A Child’s Eyes” (229)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Steve Jolley, and Tony Swain

Produced by Jolley & Swain

 

This acoustic-sounding ballad was from their second album simply titled Bananarama. This a very sad song with a haunting melody.



#33. “Tonight” (2019)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, and Rod Thomas

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This dance pop song appeared on their album In Stereo. It was co-written and produced by Rod Thomas (aka Bright Light Bright Light). The music has an edge to it, and the vocals soar right before the chorus.



#32. “Give It All Up For Love” (1993)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Mike Stock, and Pete Waterman

Produced by Mike Stock and Pete Waterman

 

This disco ditty was first released as a b-side to the single “More, More, More.” It was released a month later on their album Please Yourself. This is a fun song with lots of strings and backup singers. 



#31. “Live In The Sun” (2005)

Written by Sara Dallin and Keren Woodward

Produced by Dru Masters

 

This song was the b-side to “Look On The Floor (Hypnotic Tango).” It is a great club-friendly pop song with a nice melody. Sadly, this song is not on streaming services, even though it was on the Expanded release of Drama.



#30. “Boy Trouble” (1982)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, and Keren Woodward

Produced by Jolly & Swain

 

This shambolic number was the b-side to their hit “Shy Boy.” However, the b-side was called “Don’t Call Us” so that both songs wouldn’t have the word Boy in them. It would later appear on their debut album Deep Sea Skiving with its proper title. They even performed this song on a UK TV Show. During the Original Lineup Tour in 2017/2018, they performed this song mixed with “Shy Boy.” It is on the live album as “Shy Boy Trouble.”



#29 “Crazy” (2001)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, and Patrick Hampatzyoumyan

Produced by Pascal Caubet

 

This song is from their album Exotica. It’s not a ballad, but is a slower tempo song with a deep groove. Lots of attitude in the vocals. Thankfully, it was included on Glorious: The Ultimate Collection.



#28. “What You Gonna Do” (2001)

Written by Sara Dallin and Bassey Walker

Produced by Pascal Caubet

 

This song originally recorded around 1997 for the demo album shopped around at the time. It ended up on their next album Exotica. It is also the last song from Exotica on our list.



#27. “You’ve Really Got Something” (1995)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Gary Miller, Paul Berry, and Steve Torch

Produced by Gary Miller

 

This dance pop song is from their 1995 album Ultra Violet. It is a glorious slice of Eurodance. The melody is ace, and the chorus is catchy, as is the dance beat.



#26. “Dream Baby” (1984)

Written by Cindy Ecstasy and Rick Holliday

Produced by Jolly & Swain

 

This is from their sophomore album Bananarama in 1984. It’s an upbeat song with great harmonies.



#25. “Don’t Step On My Groove” (2005)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Henri Korpi and Mathias Wollo (Blackcell)

Produced by Korpi & Blackcell

 

This track is from the Drama album. Fun fact: The producers initially offered to Sophie Ellis-Bextor in 2002. Sophie changes the lyrics and chorus and it morphed into “Get Over You.” Bananarama heard the track and wrote new lyrics and made the song their own.



#24. “The Sound Of Silence” (2009)

Written by Paul Simon

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This is a remake of the Simon & Garfunkel 1964 classic. The music took it to an icy electro depth, while the unison vocals brought warmth to the track. It’s quite the beautiful cover version.



#23. “True Confessions” (1986)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Steve Jolley, and Tony Swain

Produced by Jolley & Swain

 

This was the title track for their 1986 album. The album version is over 5-minute long. In the mid-90s, a compilation CD by Master Series included a 4-minute edit, leading fans to believe that it might have been considered as a single at one point.



#22. “Mr. Sleaze” (1987)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Mike Stock, Matt Aitken, and Pete Waterman

Produced by Stock Aitken Waterman

 

This was the b-side to “Love In The First Degree” in 1987 in the UK, and it was sited as helping record sales as it was getting some airplay, too. The song was performed during their 1989 World Tour. Fun fact: The US version had a different mix.



#21. “Frequency” (2005)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Bassey Walker, and Leigh Guest

Produced by Leigh Guest

 

This album track is from Drama. The music here is mesmerizing and it makes you feel like you are spinning around. Very well done and it would have been worthy as a single.



#20. “Dance With A Stranger” (1986)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Steve Jolley, and Tony Swain

Produced by Jolley & Swain

 

Another ballad. This time from True Confessions. We are surprised by the high placement of this song. It is very adult contemporary sounding. It has a lovely melody and lush vocals.



#19. “Heartless” (1991)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Mike Stock, Matt Aitken, and Pete Waterman

Produced by Stock Aitken Waterman

 

This was a bonus track on their Pop Life album. It’s a fine pop song about someone not being so nice.



#18 "Ready Or Not" (1986)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Steve Jolley, and Tony Swain

Produced by Jolley & Swain

 

This was from the True Confessions album. We think that is must of also been considered as a single before “Venus” came along as it was given a remix by Pettibone & Forest.



#17. “The Runner” (2009)

Written by Giorgio Moroder and Sheila Ferguson

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This remake of the The Three Degrees song from 1979 appeared on the album Viva. It was also given a remix by Buzz Junkies for the 12” and digital single for “Love Don’t Live Here” in 2010. Bananarama do a great job with the vocals.



#16. “Once In A Lifetime” (1987)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Mike Stock, Matt Aitken, and Pete Waterman

Produced by Stock Aitken Waterman

 

This gorgeous ballad is from their WOW! album. We thought it would have made a wonderful single release, but Bananarama never really had chart success with ballads as singles, but they should have tried with this one, because it is divine. They even performed it on their 1989 World Tour.



#15. “State I’m In” (1984)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Steve Jolley, and Tony Swain

Produced by Jolley & Swain

 

This lively track is from their Bananarama album. It must have been considered as a single at one point, as there was a music video made. Instead, it ended up being the b-side to both “Hot Line To Heaven” in UK and “The Wild Life” in North America.



#14. “Is She Good To You” (1993)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Mike Stock, and Pete Waterman

Produced by Mike Stock and Pete Waterman

 

This camptastic song is from Please Yourself. What a glorious song it is! It was considered for a single as it was given a fantastic remix, but the single was never released. The 7” remix was later released on an album reissue in 2013. It would have made a perfect single. The lyrics are about wanting a lover back who has moved on. The music is full-on disco pop and the strings are fantastic.



#13. “La La Love” (2012)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, and Ian Masterson

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This is from their Now Or Never EP. It really is too bad that this energetic track was not a single because it really is so much fun! "Kitty Kitty!"



#12. “What A Shambles” (1983)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, and Terry Sharpe

Produced by Barry Blue

 

This darling track is from their debut album. This was written after the girls had become famous and people expected them to be rich. “I wish you were in our shoes. I wish you could be us. Washing all your laundry and riding on the bus.” 



#11. “Love, Leave, Forget” (2002) 

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Ian Masterson and Mike Christie

Produced by Ian Masterson and Mike Christie

 

This track is credited as Multitude featuring Bananarama. The song appeared on the soundtrack to the TV show Is Harry On The Boat? The song is backed with attitude and aimed directly at the dancefloor. It has an unexpected saxophone solo in the middle. Should have been a single. Sadly, this song is not on streaming services.



#10. “Stay Wild” (2022)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, and Ian Masterson

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This dream pop track is from their Masquerade album. It is gorgeous, lush, and absolutely beautiful. A lot of fans wish it would have been a single. It got many votes making our Top 10!



#9. “What Colour R The Skies Where U Live” (1991)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Andy Caine, and Martin Glover (Youth)

Produced by Youth

 

This reggae ballad is from their Pop Life album. The song starts off with the infamous seagulls, but quickly turns into a haunting pop song with beautiful chorus. Absolutely lovely.



#8. “Velvet Lies” (2022)

Written by Sara Dallin, Alice Dallin-Walker, and Ian Masterson

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This awesome track was from their Masquerade album. It was another song that Sara wrote with her daughter Alice. The lyrics flow so easily and the chorus is grand. It’s about getting over someone. It could have easily been a single, too.



#7. “Strike It Rich” (1987)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Mike Stock, Matt Aitken, and Pete Waterman

Produced by Stock Aitken Waterman

 

This uplifting track from the WOW! album is the one where Siobhan famously said she covered her mouth when it came to the line "Strike It Rich." We wonder if her vocals were even included on it at all. It was also quite edgy for the group to rhyme rich with bitch. This was also performed on their 1989 World Tour.



#6 “Is Your Love Strong Enough” (1991)

Written by Sara Dallin and Steve Jolley

Produced by Andy Caine and Robin Goodfellow

 

This fantastic album track is from the Pop Life album. Sara wrote the song with Steve Jolley, who helped write a lot of their early hits. This song is special because there are 2 choruses happening at the same time. The lyrics are very descriptive and the vocals are heavenly. There is even a backmasking part (vocals played backwards). It really is quite an interesting song. Not sure it would have made a great single, but an absolutely wonderful song.



#5. “Some Girls” (1987)

Written by Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, Keren Woodward, Mike Stock, Matt Aitken, and Pete Waterman

Produced by Stock Aitken Waterman

 

The music of this freestyle gem from their WOW! album is very similar to "Crush On You" by The Jets. We know that Sara and Keren finished the album without Siobhan, and we think this might be one of the tracks that doesn’t have Siobhan on it as we think Sara sings both verses and Keren sings the bridges. We wish it would have been re-recorded with Jacquie and have a fresh remix for a single in the spring of 1988.



#4. “Waiting For The Sun To Shine” (2022)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, and Ian Masterson

Produced by Ian Masterson

 

This amazing song is from their Masquerade album and we were overjoyed to see this place so high on the list. It really should have been considered as a single. It has melancholy feel to it while lifting to euphoric heights. The lyrics are about self empowerment and it just what we needed after the pandemic. Sara and Keren’s vocals really shine (pun intended) on this one. This an absolute gem.



#3. “Ain’t No Cure” (1991)

Written by Sara Dallin, Mike Stock, Matt Aitken, and Pete Waterman

Produced by Stock Aitken Waterman

 

This fun track should have been released as a single in early 1990 as soon as it was finished. At the time, Bananarama were trying to get away from the Stock Aitken Waterman sound, but this was a home run that never happened. It even has a lovely key change. The song appears on their Pop Life album.



#2. “Love In Stereo” (2019)

Written by Keisha Buchanan, Siobhan Donaghy, Hannah Robinson, and Richard X

Produced by Richard X and Hannah Robinson

 

This song was written by the Sugababes and Richard X, who originally recorded it for an album they were working on in 2013. The album was leaked, and it was put on hold. Bananarama got the song and recorded their version with some added “Woos.” It was quickly a fan favourite, but never released as a single. Judging by the votes it got, fans would have loved this as a single. A live version of the song can be found on their Live In Stereo album.





#1. “Feel For You” (2005)

Written by Sara Dallin, Keren Woodward, Ian Masterson, and Terry Ronald

Produced by Ian Masterson and Terry Ronald

 

Our #1 song is one that should have been a single! It was on their Drama album, and it is a clear fan favourite. Both Sara and Keren have said that they would have liked the song to be a single, with Keren adding “It’s just so damn sexy.” Indeed, it is. A live version of the song can be found on their Live In Stereo album.



There you have it! We've added a Bananarama Deep Cuts YouTube Playlist ...



We've also added a Bananarama Deep Cuts Spotify Playlist ...



Please continue to stream Glorious: The Ultimate Collection


Flying high on your blue sky,
—The Poptastic Confessions Collective


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See our Top Songs of past years here ... Bananarama had our #1 songs in 2012 and 2019. They also had songs in our Top 21 in 20102022, and 2023.

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