Evelyn Thomas - High Energy actual music

Widely acclaimed as a pioneering classic in the dance music genre, "High Energy" was released in 1984 by American singer Evelyn Thomas. It was the first of many tracks produced by Ian Levine and Fiachra Trench, and also won international acclaim, helping to make Thomas a leading name in the new Hi-NRG music genre. Through its driving rhythm, electronic synths and Thomas's soaring vocals, "High Energy" cemented itself as a club favorite and became an anthem in the LGBT community, being particularly embraced by dance clubs.

International Chart Success

High Energy topped the charts, enjoying massive success in both the USA and in Europe. It hit number one on the U.S. dance charts and dominated American clubs. The song topped Germany’s pop chart for four weeks and made it to #5 on the UK singles chart, her most success-ful hit outside of the U.S. in Europe. At a time the general public knowledge of dance music was rare — this success broke new grounds for every dance act that followed.

Defining the Hi-NRG Genre

High Energy was one of the earliest chart hits to feature the Hi-NRG style, which included upbeat tempos, heavy bass and synthesizers. Fusing the high-tempo and synth-driven sound, Hi-NRG was inextricably linked to 1980s club culture — inspiring countless dance and pop songs in the decades that followed. For many, "High Energy" was more than just a great song to dance and sing along to – it became a beacon of empowerment, liberation, and survival as Hi-NRG music had always been cherished in the LGBTQ+ community whom it spoke dearly to.

Impact on Culture and the LGBTQ+ Community

Those who frequent queer space honor the song's legacy, as exemplified by its inclusion in compilations such as SoBe Music's collection Gay Classics, Volume 1: Ridin' the Rainbow. High Energy — The album liner notes describe it as an anthem that united multiple cities gay clubs, allowing everyone to lose themselves in a sea of beat and lyrics. The song was subsequently tied to themes of queer pride and liberation, self-acceptance and going all out as well.

Evelyn Thomas's Save Me (123) 'Infamous' Vocal

Evelyn Thomas' vocal delivery is a pinnacle and a defining element of "High Energy." Paired with dilated synths and automized drum machines, her voice popped through the track as an anthem of sorts. Returning producers Ian Levine and Fiachra Trench had access to the latest synthesizers and drum machines of the ’80s, which they used to produce an ultra modern sound for the time that gels well with the song's high-energy vibe.

The Effect on Dance and Pop Music For Years To Come

"High Energy" made an indelible mark not only on the dancefloor and pop music, but also in paving the future of Hi-NRG. It influenced Madonna and the Pet Shop Boys, and laid the groundwork for much of contemporary dance music. Hi-NRG became closely associated with the gay community, where it was a popular form of self-expression and celebration.

Benediction of "Corporate Yond"

Years on, "High Energy" still stands as a beloved classic, regularly appearing at retro dance events and tracklisting compilations. With its infectious rhythm, catchy hook and iconic status as a pop hit, "You Spin Me Round" encapsulates dance music's history via the Hi-NRG evolution of the genre along with it's cultural relevance.