Synopsis

Level 42 perform "Leaving Me Now" in a dark, theatrical setting centered on Mark King, who appears as a troubled clown magician. As the emotional ballad unfolds, his stage persona gradually gives way to visible regret and vulnerability. The performance imagery mirrors the song's breakup theme, presenting a man confronting the consequences of a failed relationship and stripping away the character he has used to conceal his feelings.

Factoids & Trivia

• The video was released in 1985 to accompany the second single from the album "World Machine."

• Mark King's dark clown magician character carries over from Level 42's earlier "Something About You" video, giving the two clips a loose visual connection.

• The character's removal of his makeup reflects the song's emotional movement from theatrical self-protection toward remorse and exposure.

• "Leaving Me Now" was written by Mark King, Phil Gould, and Wally Badarou. The track is notable within Level 42's catalog for its restrained ballad format rather than the band's usual jazz-funk emphasis.

• Mike Lindup plays piano during the middle and closing sections of the album version. These passages were shortened for the single edit.

• The single reached No. 15 on the UK Singles Chart in late 1985, helping "World Machine" become one of the band's major breakthrough albums.