Synopsis

Paul Young performs "Love of the Common People" in a straightforward early-1980s pop setting, singing into a handheld microphone while the video cuts between stage footage, city views, and scenes of him signing autographs before an appearance. The presentation keeps the focus on Young and the performance rather than dramatizing the song's story of poverty, unemployment, family loyalty, and resilience. Distorted images, concert-style lighting, and quick edits give the clip a distinctly period-specific MTV-era look.

Factoids & Trivia

• "Love of the Common People" was written by John Hurley and Ronnie Wilkins. Paul Young's recording is a cover, following earlier versions by the Four Preps, the Winstons, Joe Dolan, and Nicky Thomas.

• Young's version was first released in January 1983 but initially failed to chart. It was reissued on November 7, 1983, after the success of "Wherever I Lay My Hat (That's My Home)" and "Come Back and Stay."

• The reissue reached No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart and topped the charts in Belgium, Ireland, Italy, and the Netherlands.

• The recording features backing vocals from the Fabulous Wealthy Tarts, the duo of Kim Lesley and Maz Roberts.

• Jamaican trombonist Rico Rodriguez contributes a prominent solo to Young's version, helping connect its polished blue-eyed soul arrangement with the song's earlier reggae interpretations.

• In the United States, the song benefited from inclusion on the soundtrack of the 1984 teen film "Sixteen Candles," which helped it receive additional radio exposure.