About the song
Laura Branigan’s third studio album, “Self Control,” released on April 1, 1984, stands as a testament to her vocal prowess and enduring appeal in the pop music landscape of the 1980s. Distributed by Atlantic Records, the album swiftly captured attention, peaking at number 23 on the prestigious US Billboard 200 chart. Its widespread popularity earned it platinum certification from the RIAA, cementing Branigan’s status as a formidable artist in the industry.
The album’s success was propelled by a series of hit singles, each showcasing Branigan’s versatile vocal range and emotive delivery. Notably, her rendition of Raf’s “Self Control” emerged as a commercial triumph, soaring to number four on the Billboard Hot 100. Across international markets, the song dominated charts in Canada and various European nations, underscoring its global resonance and appeal.
In addition to “Self Control,” the album spawned several other chart-topping singles. “The Lucky One,” another standout track, secured a spot in the Billboard Hot 100’s top 20, further solidifying Branigan’s presence on the American music scene. Her interpretation of Umberto Tozzi’s classic “Ti amo” also made waves, achieving significant chart success in Australia and Canada, reaching number two and number five, respectively.
Recognizing the enduring popularity of “Self Control,” a remastered and expanded edition was released on April 25, 2013, by Gold Legion. This reissue included compelling remixes of “The Lucky One” and “Satisfaction,” alongside the extended version of the titular track “Self Control,” catering to both loyal fans and a new generation of listeners.
Laura Branigan’s “Self Control” remains not only a pivotal moment in her career but also a testament to the timeless quality of her music. Its blend of energetic pop melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and Branigan’s powerful vocals continues to resonate with audiences, solidifying its place in the pantheon of 1980s pop classics.
Video
Lyrics
Oh, the night is my world
City light painted girl
In the day nothing matters
It’s the night time that flatters
In the night, no control
Through the wall something’s breaking
Wearing white as you’re walkin’
Down the street of my soul
You take my self, you take my self control
You got me livin’ only for the night
Before the morning comes, the story’s told
You take my self, you take my self control
Another night, another day goes by
I never stop myself to wonder why
You help me to forget to play my role
You take my self, you take my self control
I, I live among the creatures of the night
I haven’t got the will to try and fight
Against a new tomorrow
So I guess I’ll just believe it
That tomorrow never comes
A safe night (you take my self, you take my self control)
I’m living in the forest of my dream (you take my self, you take my self control)
I know the night is not as it would seem (you take my self, you take my self control)
I must believe in something
So I’ll make myself believe it (you take my self, you take my self control)
This night will never go
Oh-oh-oh
Oh-oh-oh
Oh-oh-oh
Oh-oh-oh
Oh-oh-oh…
Oh, the night is my world
City light painted girl
In the day nothing matters
It’s the night time that flatters
I, I live among the creatures of the night
I haven’t got the will to try and fight
Against a new tomorrow
So I guess I’ll just believe it
Tomorrow never knows
A safe night (you take my self, you take my self control)
I’m living in the forest of my dream (you take m yself, you take my self control)
I know the night is not as it would seem (you take m yself, you take my self control)
I must believe in something
So I’ll make myself believe it (you take my self, you take my self control)
This night will never go
Oh-oh-oh
Oh-oh-oh
Oh-oh-oh
Oh-oh-oh
Oh-oh-oh…
You take my self, you take my self control (oh-oh-oh)
You take my self, you take my self control (oh-oh-oh)
You take my self, you take my self control (oh-oh-oh)
You take my self, you take my self control (oh-oh-oh)
You take my self, you take my self control (oh-oh-oh)
You take my self, you take my self control (oh-oh-oh)
You take my self, you take my self control (oh-oh-oh)
You take my self, you take my self control (oh-oh-oh)