Cliff Richard, the celebrated British pop icon, has enjoyed an illustrious career spanning more than six decades, with a legacy that includes hits in genres ranging from pop to rock and Christian music. One of his most notable songs, “Some People,” stands out as a defining track from his 1987 album Always Guaranteed. The song perfectly encapsulates Richard’s ability to blend catchy melodies with heartfelt lyrics, making it a standout in his extensive catalog. This review delves deep into the song, analyzing its musical elements, instrumentation, lyrical themes, and how it fits into Richard’s broader discography. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, “Some People” remains a quintessential piece of music that continues to resonate with listeners.
Introduction to Always Guaranteed
Released in 1987, Always Guaranteed is a highly successful album that marked a shift in Cliff Richard’s musical direction. The album was crafted during a period when Richard was at the height of his popularity, both in the UK and internationally. It features a mix of pop and soft rock tracks, combining Richard’s signature smooth vocal style with contemporary production techniques. The album was a commercial success, reaching the top of the UK charts and solidifying Richard’s place as a pop culture icon.
“Some People,” the lead single from the album, became one of the most recognizable songs from the Always Guaranteed era. Written by Richard himself along with celebrated songwriter Alan Tarney, “Some People” was crafted to be both commercially appealing and emotionally resonant. The track’s blend of upbeat rhythms, catchy hooks, and relatable lyrics made it an instant favorite with fans, and it remains one of Richard’s most enduring hits.
While Always Guaranteed has several tracks that showcase Richard’s versatility, “Some People” stands as the album’s most iconic offering. The song offers a perfect balance of radio-friendly pop and reflective storytelling, providing a glimpse into Richard’s maturity as a performer and composer.
Musical Composition and Instrumentation in “Some People”
At its core, “Some People” is a piece of music that blends elements of soft rock with an infectious pop sensibility. The song opens with a catchy piano riff that quickly establishes the tone for the track. The piano, played with a steady rhythm, acts as the bedrock for the entire composition, underpinning the melody and adding a sense of gravitas to the song. This emphasis on piano is a hallmark of many of Richard’s 1980s songs, giving his music a rich, full sound that complements his warm, clear vocal style.
The arrangement of “Some People” is lush and layered, featuring a wide range of instruments that contribute to its dynamic feel. Alongside the prominent piano, the song also incorporates electric guitars, a driving bass line, and percussion that helps propel the track forward. The electric guitar, in particular, adds a layer of brightness and sharpness to the song’s overall sound. Richard himself is known to have a keen understanding of how to balance instrumentation in a way that allows each element to shine without overpowering the others. In “Some People,” the guitar and piano are seamlessly integrated, working together to create an infectious rhythm that is both melodic and upbeat.
A subtle use of synthesizers and electronic drums is also present, providing the song with a slight sheen typical of late 1980s pop music. These elements add a modern touch to the track without compromising the emotional depth of the lyrics. While the synthesizers are used sparingly, they add a sense of space to the music, allowing the listener to focus on Richard’s voice and the song’s lyrical content.
One of the standout features of the track is the arrangement of the backing vocals. Richard is joined by a chorus of vocal harmonies that accentuate the song’s themes of hope and perseverance. The vocal layering, combined with the spacious instrumental arrangement, gives “Some People” an almost anthemic quality, making it not just a song, but an experience. The harmonies work in tandem with the uplifting message of the lyrics, creating a sense of unity and shared purpose.
The Lyrics and Themes of “Some People”
Lyrically, “Some People” is a reflection on the contrasting experiences of life. The song explores themes of inequality, personal struggle, and the desire for more, with Richard delivering the message that, while some people may have everything, others have very little. At its heart, “Some People” is about aspiration, the idea that no matter where one starts in life, there is always the hope for improvement.
Richard’s delivery of the lyrics is powerful, with his warm and emotive voice conveying both vulnerability and optimism. The chorus, in particular, stands out as a powerful declaration of self-belief and resilience. Lines like “Some people, they never have it right / Some people, they never win the fight” suggest that while some people face adversity, others are fortunate enough to be in a more privileged position. The song captures the human experience, offering a message of empathy and understanding.
Despite dealing with heavy subject matter, the song never feels overly pessimistic. Richard infuses the track with an undercurrent of hope, suggesting that even in the face of hardship, there is always the possibility of a better tomorrow. This thematic duality, where the song juxtaposes personal struggle with optimism, is a hallmark of Richard’s songwriting style, which often blends introspective reflection with positive messaging.
Cliff Richard’s Performance: Vocals and Emotional Delivery
Cliff Richard’s vocal performance on “Some People” is one of the song’s strongest attributes. His voice, which has matured over the years, carries a depth and richness that brings the song’s themes to life. He sings with both conviction and tenderness, perfectly capturing the emotional weight of the lyrics. Richard’s vocal phrasing is impeccable, giving each word and line its due emphasis while maintaining a smooth, effortless flow.
The way Richard modulates his voice throughout the song—moving from reflective softness in the verses to a more powerful, belted delivery in the chorus—adds to the emotional intensity of the track. This vocal progression mirrors the song’s thematic journey from introspection to empowerment, making it not just a song, but a narrative arc in itself.
The emotional pull of “Some People” is further accentuated by Richard’s use of dynamics. In the softer moments, he allows the song’s more tender lyrics to resonate, and in the more soaring choruses, his voice swells with energy, creating a sense of urgency and passion. This balance of light and shade is one of the reasons the song remains so enduring.
Similar Songs for Further Listening
For those who enjoy “Some People,” there are several other Cliff Richard tracks, as well as songs from other artists, that evoke similar sentiments or share comparable musical elements. Here are a few suggestions:
- Cliff Richard – “The Only Way Out” A track from Richard’s Always Guaranteed album, “The Only Way Out” shares a similar thematic focus on the complexities of life, offering a more introspective and reflective tone.
- Phil Collins – “Another Day in Paradise” Like “Some People,” Collins’ classic hit addresses issues of social inequality, offering a poignant reflection on the disparity between the fortunate and the less fortunate. The song’s soft rock feel and reflective lyrics make it a great companion to Richard’s track.
- Barry Manilow – “I Made It Through the Rain” Another iconic ballad, Manilow’s “I Made It Through the Rain” mirrors the hopeful themes of perseverance and overcoming adversity found in “Some People.” Both songs offer anthemic choruses and emotionally resonant vocals.
- Elton John – “I’m Still Standing” Known for his soaring piano and unforgettable melodies, Elton John’s “I’m Still Standing” offers a message of resilience and triumph, much like “Some People.” Both songs blend pop sensibilities with deeply personal lyrics.
Conclusion
“Some People” is more than just a song—it is a masterful blend of pop, soft rock, and reflective lyricism that continues to resonate with audiences decades after its release. Cliff Richard’s ability to weave emotional depth into a commercially viable piece of music is on full display here, with every element—from the instrumentation to the vocal delivery—working together to create a timeless classic. The song’s uplifting message, paired with its lush arrangement and heartfelt performance, makes it a standout in Richard’s extensive discography and a piece of music that continues to captivate listeners to this day.
If you’re a fan of well-crafted pop with a message, “Some People” is a song that demands attention. It stands as a testament to Richard’s enduring talent and serves as a perfect introduction to his music for those new to his work. Whether you’re drawn to its reflective lyrics or its catchy melody, there’s no denying the song’s lasting impact.