Our 5 Favourites: Billy Ocean songs

Billy is one of our biggest, best & most beloved recording stars – with worldwide record sales of over 30 million, and six top 10s on both sides of the Atlantic. We are honoured to have him perform at CC 2023.

His music is irresistible R&B / pop, with some of these songs ranking as the catchiest, most radio-friendly music the '80s had to offer. 

We have listed our five favourite Billy Ocean tracks ahead of his highly-anticipated headline show on Sunday 11 June. Get ready to sing along…

1. Caribbean Queen (1984)

The funky, delightful "Caribbean Queen" gave Billy Ocean his first American #1 hit and won the 1984 Grammy Award – quickly taking this sleek and infectious club track from a danceable groove to a worldwide hit. A feel-good, flirty track that works as the party-starting song that it was always meant to be. Perfection.

2. Love Really Hurts Without You (1976)

Ocean's first major U.S. hit, 1976's "Love Really Hurts Without You" was the song which enabled him to quit his job at the Ford factory – and focus solely on music. It’s very much a pop song, with a bright and cheerful vibe offset by a slight tone of regretfulness. Jingly drums, bouncy piano, and lush strings - very sweet stuff indeed.

3. Red Light Spells Danger (1976)

The 1976 hit “Red Light Spells Danger” is one of the most extraordinary pop records ever created. A classic 80s track, with a bouncy rhythm but haunting lyrics – a powerful contrast persists throughout the song, with a belting vocal performance from Billy to boot. This is one of our favourites from the soul king. See you on the dance floor…

4. Get Outta My Dreams (1988) 

The chart-topper “Get Outta My Dreams” is one of the catchiest and liveliest tracks from Billy Ocean’s back catalogue — a bright pop sound that still bursts feel-good energy, edging endearingly towards the goofy. From the song's 8-word title, to its appearance in 1988 film 'License to Drive,' this iconic track sped straight to number one in April 1988 – and is still a fan favourite to this day.

5. When The Going Gets Tough, The Tough Get Going (1985)

Billy Ocean’s mega-hit “When the Going Gets Tough, the Tough Get Going” is perhaps his most instantly recognisable song. A smooth, funky dance number with an irresistible groove stormed the charts on its release, spending four weeks at number one. We can’t wait to hear this one live on Sunday 11th June! 

Don't miss undisputed R&B royalty, the soul king himself headlining The Cambridge Club 2023. Secure your spot NOW from just £20! See you in the festival field…

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