About the song
“Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God)” by Kate Bush
“Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God)” is one of the most iconic and emotionally powerful songs by Kate Bush, a British singer-songwriter widely regarded for her experimental approach to pop music. Released in August 1985 as the lead single from her fifth studio album, Hounds of Love, the track marked a significant turning point in Bush’s career, blending art rock with synthesizer-driven pop to create a sound that was as innovative as it was emotionally resonant.
The song’s central theme revolves around the idea of empathy between men and women, especially in the context of romantic relationships. Bush expresses the desire for a deeper understanding between lovers by imagining a world in which a man and a woman could swap places, both emotionally and physically. The song’s original title was intended to be “A Deal with God,” referencing the idea of making a bargain to swap lives with another person. However, due to concerns from her record label that references to “God” might limit radio play in some countries, the title was changed to “Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God).”
From a lyrical standpoint, the song is remarkably profound. The lines “And if I only could, I’d make a deal with God / And I’d get him to swap our places” highlight Bush’s yearning for emotional equality and a deeper level of connection between genders. Rather than presenting love as idealized, Bush explores the tensions, misunderstandings, and struggles that often accompany intimacy. Her lyrics are poetic yet grounded in human experience, making the song feel universal and deeply personal at once.
Musically, “Running Up That Hill” is a masterclass in production and arrangement. It opens with a pulsating drum machine beat, layered with synthesizers, haunting vocal harmonies, and atmospheric textures. The song’s electronic soundscape was groundbreaking at the time and remains influential to this day. Bush produced the track herself, a notable achievement for a female artist in the mid-1980s, and the production displays her meticulous attention to sonic detail. The synthesizer riff is instantly recognizable, and its tension-filled, driving rhythm mirrors the song’s emotional urgency.
The accompanying music video further adds to the mystique of the song. Instead of lip-syncing or performing traditionally, Bush and dancer Michael Hervieu perform a contemporary dance routine filled with dramatic, expressive movements. Directed by David Garfath, the video emphasizes body language and motion as a form of communication, aligning with the song’s theme of emotional misunderstanding and unspoken struggles. The decision to focus on dance rather than conventional visuals showcases Bush’s artistic boldness and her commitment to exploring alternative forms of expression.
Upon its release, “Running Up That Hill” was both a critical and commercial success. It reached number 3 on the UK Singles Chart, becoming Bush’s biggest hit since her 1978 debut “Wuthering Heights.” In the United States, it became her most successful single to date, peaking at number 30 on the Billboard Hot 100. Critics praised the track’s originality, emotional depth, and Bush’s ethereal vocal performance. Over time, the song’s reputation has only grown, and it is now widely regarded as one of the greatest songs of the 1980s.
In 2022, the song experienced a remarkable resurgence in popularity after it was featured prominently in Season 4 of Netflix’s Stranger Things. The emotional climax of a key episode involved the character Max Mayfield being saved by listening to “Running Up That Hill,” leading to a new generation discovering the song. As a result, it climbed to number 1 on the UK Singles Chart, 37 years after its original release—an unprecedented feat that underscored the song’s timeless power.
What makes “Running Up That Hill” truly remarkable is its ability to transcend time, genre, and generation. Its blend of emotional vulnerability, philosophical inquiry, and musical experimentation makes it one of the most enduring songs in popular music history. Bush’s fearless exploration of love, empathy, and the human condition, combined with her innovative sound design, sets the song apart as not just a hit, but a cultural touchstone.
In conclusion, “Running Up That Hill” is far more than just a pop song — it’s a work of emotional and artistic depth, a testament to Kate Bush’s visionary talent, and a reminder of music’s ability to touch the soul. Decades after its release, it continues to move, inspire, and resonate with listeners around the world.