"True Faith" is one of New Order's most iconic singles, released in July 1987. It was co-written and co-produced by the band alongside Stephen Hague. The song stands out for its fusion of post-punk spirit with polished synth-pop, helping New Order define the sound of late '80s alternative and dance music12.
Background and Release
- Release Date: July 1987
- Album: Originally released as a new song for the compilation Substance 1987.
- Production: The track marked a high point in New Order's collaboration with producer Stephen Hague, showcasing sophisticated electronic instrumentation12.
Chart Performance
| Country | Chart | Peak Position |
|---|---|---|
| UK | Singles Chart | #4 |
| US | Billboard Hot 100 | #32 |
| UK (Remix 1994) | Singles Chart | #9 |
- "True Faith" was New Order's first single to reach the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States12.
- The 1994 remix also charted well, demonstrating the song's lasting popularity1.
Musical Style and Lyrics
- Sound: Characterized by shimmering synthesizers, dynamic drum programming, and Bernard Sumner's distinctively cool vocal delivery.
- Lyrics: The themes are cryptic and introspective, widely interpreted as addressing struggles with addiction and emotional distance. Notable lines include:
"I used to think that the day would never come / I'd see delight in the shade of the morning sun...". - Music Video: The surreal and influential video, directed by French choreographer Philippe Decouflé, featured theatrical, colorfully costumed performers and became a staple on MTV2.
Personnel
| Member | Role |
|---|---|
| Bernard Sumner | Vocals, guitar, keyboards, programming |
| Peter Hook | Bass guitar |
| Stephen Morris | Drums, keyboards, programming |
| Gillian Gilbert | Keyboards, programming, guitar |
| Stephen Hague | Co-writer, co-producer |
Legacy and Influence
- "True Faith" is regularly cited among New Order's greatest achievements and one of the most enduring singles of the late 1980s12.
- The song remains a staple of their live shows and continues to influence artists in dance, rock, and pop genres.
- It has been widely covered and remixed, most notably with its charting "True Faith ‘94" version45.
Notable Insights
- The track was written specifically for the Substance 1987 collection, which became a major commercial success.
- Its blend of melancholy with danceable rhythms helped shape the crossover appeal of alternative club music.
- The artwork and video, as well as the song's complex emotional tone, contributed significantly to New Order's distinct cultural identity through the late 1980s and beyond.
"True Faith" endures as a shining example of sophisticated pop paired with introspective lyricism—one of New Order’s most beloved and influential songs126.
