Today’s video of the day is Frankie Goes To Hollywood – "Wish (The Lads Were Here)" released in 1984.
Frankie Goes To Hollywood burst onto the scene in the early 1980s. Known for their bold style and provocative lyrics, they quickly became one of the decade’s most influential acts. “Wish (The Lads Were Here)” was among the first songs written by Holly Johnson, Mark O’Toole, and Peter Gill. The track first appeared on The John Peel Sessions before making its way onto their 1984 debut album Welcome to the Pleasuredome. This video features Frankie Goes To Hollywood performing an extended version of “Wish,” remixed by 317537 Productions. The visuals highlight the band’s playful energy while adding new depth to the track.
Welcome to the Pleasuredome was released on 29 October 1984 by ZTT Records. Issued as a vinyl double album, it entered the UK charts at number one, with advance sales over one million. It sold around a quarter of a million copies in its first week. The album also became a top-10 seller in Switzerland, Sweden, Australia, and New Zealand. While a commercial success, the album drew criticism. Many tracks were new versions of singles like “Relax,” “Two Tribes,” and the B-side “War.” The record also leaned heavily on cover songs rather than fresh original material. Later, it was revealed that Trevor Horn’s production dominated the sessions. In many cases, session players replaced the band’s own performances.
Still, songs like “Wish (The Lads Were Here)” balanced the album. Unlike the shocking energy of “Relax,” this track leaned into groove and atmosphere. It remains a vital link between Frankie’s polished debut and their second album, Liverpool. That follow-up moved away from heavy production and featured the full band more directly. Decades later, Welcome to the Pleasuredome endures as a cultural landmark. The extended video remix of “Wish” showcases Frankie Goes To Hollywood’s unique blend of humor, style, and ambition. It also proves they were more than controversy—they were architects of sound and image.
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