Earlier this week marked the anniversary of the release of Pretty in Pink, the quintessential 80s movie that captured the hearts of a generation. Beyond the coming-of-age narrative and iconic fashion, the film’s soundtrack has solidified its place in pop culture history. Among the many standout tracks, “Bring On The Dancing Horses” by Echo & The Bunnymen remains a particularly resonant and intriguing piece.
Pretty in Pink movie poster featuring Molly Ringwald
Initially, director Howard Deutch envisioned a traditional film score for Pretty in Pink. However, John Hughes, the film’s writer, championed the use of New Wave and Post-Punk music, a signature element that defined his filmmaking style. This decision proved pivotal, exposing a wider audience to emerging artists and shaping the musical landscape of the 80s for many, including those who grew up in places where access to such genres was limited. The Pretty in Pink soundtrack became a gateway to bands like New Order, The Psychedelic Furs, The Smiths, Suzanne Vega, and of course, Echo & The Bunnymen.
Pretty in Pink soundtrack album cover featuring various 80s artists
“Bring On The Dancing Horses” was one of two songs specifically created for the Pretty in Pink soundtrack, alongside Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark’s “If You Leave.” Echo & The Bunnymen, hailing from Liverpool, England, had already established themselves as prominent figures in the Post-Punk and New Wave scene since their formation in 1978. By 1985, they had released four studio albums and garnered significant UK chart success with hits like “The Cutter” and the hauntingly beautiful “The Killing Moon.”
Echo & The Bunnymen 'Bring On The Dancing Horses' single cover
The inclusion of “Bring On The Dancing Horses” on the Pretty in Pink soundtrack was strategically timed with the release of Echo & The Bunnymen’s first compilation album, Songs to Learn & Sing. Lead vocalist Ian McCulloch offered insightful commentary on the song’s enigmatic lyrics in a 2018 interview, explaining that the “dancing horses, headless and alone,” are metaphors for statues. He elaborated, “It’s about the way people would sooner look at statues than themselves. We revere things that tell us about ourselves. It’s that thing of how we think art is very important. A life without art, who knows what that would be like? We think the Mona Lisa is this thing that’s valuable, when something else isn’t.” This adds layers of meaning to the song, suggesting themes of self-reflection, societal values, and the human relationship with art.
Echo & The Bunnymen 'The Killing Moon' single cover
Released as a single in advance of both the Pretty in Pink film and soundtrack in November 1985, “Bring On The Dancing Horses” achieved moderate chart success, reaching No. 21 in the UK and charting in Belgium and Ireland. However, its true cultural impact lies in its association with Pretty in Pink. For many, the song served as an introduction to Echo & The Bunnymen’s compelling discography, sparking a lasting appreciation for the band and their contribution to the 80s music scene.
Echo & The Bunnymen compilation album 'Songs to Learn & Sing' cover
The music video for “Bring On The Dancing Horses” further enhanced the song’s mystique and visual appeal, perfectly complementing the band’s signature blend of poetic lyrics and atmospheric soundscapes.
Screenshot from Echo & The Bunnymen 'Bring On The Dancing Horses' music video
In conclusion, “Bring On The Dancing Horses” is more than just a soundtrack song; it’s a testament to the curatorial brilliance of John Hughes and the enduring artistry of Echo & The Bunnymen. It remains a beloved track for fans of Pretty in Pink and 80s music, continuing to introduce new listeners to the band’s captivating sound and thought-provoking lyrics.
