When Did "Murder on the Dancefloor" Come Out?
Introduction
"Murder on the Dancefloor" is a song by British singer-songwriter Sophie Ellis-Bextor, released in 2001. The song became a massive hit, topping the charts in several countries and becoming a classic of the early 2000s pop era. But when exactly did this iconic song come out?
The Release Date
The single "Murder on the Dancefloor" was released on April 2, 2001, in the United Kingdom. It was the lead single from Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s debut studio album, "Read My Lips". The song was written by Ellis-Bextor, Gregg Alexander, and Eliot Kennedy, and produced by Alexander and Kennedy.
Background and Inspiration
Ellis-Bextor has spoken about the inspiration behind the song, which was influenced by the 1980s and 1990s pop and dance music scenes. She wanted to create a song that captured the energy and excitement of a night out on the town, with a hint of danger and mystery. The lyrics are about a rivalry between two women on the dance floor, with one of them ultimately being "murdered" by the other.
Chart Performance
"Murder on the Dancefloor" was a huge commercial success, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart and staying there for two weeks. It also topped the charts in several other countries, including Australia, Germany, and Ireland. The song has been certified platinum in several countries, including the UK, where it has sold over 600,000 copies.
Music Video
The music video for "Murder on the Dancefloor" was directed by Sophie Muller and features Ellis-Bextor and her rival, played by actress and model, Emma Bunton. The video is a homage to the 1980s and 1990s music videos, with its bright colors, bold fashion, and over-the-top choreography.
Critical Reception
"Murder on the Dancefloor" received widespread critical acclaim, with many praising Ellis-Bextor’s powerful vocals and the song’s catchy and infectious melody. The song has been included on several "best of" lists, including NME’s "100 Best Tracks of the 2000s" and Rolling Stone’s "100 Best Songs of the 2000s".
Legacy
"Murder on the Dancefloor" has become a classic of the early 2000s pop era, and its influence can still be heard in contemporary pop music. The song has been covered and sampled by several artists, including Lady Gaga and Kesha. Ellis-Bextor has also performed the song live on several occasions, including at the 2001 MTV Europe Music Awards and the 2002 BRIT Awards.
Timeline
Here is a timeline of the release and chart performance of "Murder on the Dancefloor":
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| April 2, 2001 | Single released in the UK |
| April 15, 2001 | Debuts at number one on the UK Singles Chart |
| May 2001 | Reaches number one on the Australian Singles Chart |
| June 2001 | Reaches number one on the German Singles Chart |
| July 2001 | Reaches number one on the Irish Singles Chart |
| August 2001 | Certified platinum in the UK |
Conclusion
"Murder on the Dancefloor" is a timeless pop classic that has stood the test of time. With its catchy melody, powerful vocals, and iconic music video, it’s no wonder the song has become a beloved anthem of the early 2000s. Whether you’re a fan of Sophie Ellis-Bextor or just a lover of pop music, "Murder on the Dancefloor" is a must-listen.
