Today’s video of the day is The Cult – “Rain” released in 1985.
The Cult released their hit song “Rain” in 1985. The track reached number 17 on the UK Singles Chart. It became one of the band’s most successful singles. “Rain” was the second single from their album Love, also released that year. The song showcases The Cult’s transition from post-punk to a harder, more melodic rock sound. Originally, the song had the working title “Sad Rain.” Ian Astbury, the band’s lead singer, drew inspiration from Native American culture. Specifically, the rain dance of the Hopi people in Arizona influenced the song’s lyrics. Astbury’s fascination with these themes is evident throughout Love. The album blends mysticism with powerful guitar-driven melodies, creating a distinctive sound for the band.
The Cult was formed in 1983 by Astbury and guitarist Billy Duffy. Their early work leaned heavily into the post-punk scene. However, Love marked a turning point. With its mix of rock and atmospheric elements, it paved the way for the band’s future releases. Their next albums, such as Electric (1987) and Sonic Temple (1989), moved further into hard rock, gaining them a wider audience. “Rain” remains a fan favorite, despite Astbury’s playful remark at a 1989 Wembley concert. He joked with the crowd, saying he didn’t personally like the song. Still, “Rain” has endured as a key track in their catalog. Its haunting melody and rhythmic drive embody the band’s evolving style in the mid-80s.
The song’s performance on Top of the Pops on October 10, 1985, cemented its status. As one of the UK’s longest-running music shows, Top of the Pops was a crucial platform for the song’s success. This exposure helped boost the single’s chart performance and solidified The Cult’s growing popularity. In summary, “Rain” is a significant part of The Cult’s journey. The song, like the album Love, bridges their early post-punk roots with their later rock anthems. Its impact remains, showing The Cult’s ability to evolve and stay relevant in rock history.
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