Europe’s journey from a fledgling band named Force to becoming one of Sweden’s most iconic rock bands is a testament to their resilience, talent, and the transformative power of music. The initial phase of their career saw them honing their skills through cover performances, all the while nurturing their own creative compositions. Their perseverance in the face of early rejections from record labels, who critiqued their appearance and language of their songs, is a classic example of the challenges many bands face on their path to success.
The turning point for Europe came in 1982 when they emerged victorious in the Swedish rock talent contest Rock-SM, outshining 4,000 other bands. This victory was not just a triumph of their music but also a validation of their individual talents, with Joey Tempest and John Norum winning accolades for Best Lead Singer and Best Guitarist, respectively. The name change to Europe, as suggested by Tempest, marked a new beginning, symbolizing their broader ambitions and setting the stage for their international acclaim.
The release of their self-titled debut album in 1983, followed by Wings of Tomorrow in 1984, laid the groundwork for their ascent in the rock music scene. However, it was their third album, The Final Countdown, that catapulted Europe to global stardom, thanks in large part to its titular track, which became a timeless anthem in rock music.
Despite their hiatus in 1992, Europe’s reunion in 2003 and subsequent album release, Start from the Dark in 2004, demonstrated their enduring appeal and the strong bond among the band members. Their music, inspired by legendary bands like UFO, Led Zeppelin, and Deep Purple, continues to resonate with fans old and new, cementing their legacy in the rock genre.
Europe’s induction into the Swedish Music Hall of Fame in 2018 is a fitting accolade for a band that has not only left an indelible mark on rock music but has also inspired countless musicians and fans worldwide. Their journey, marked by highs and lows, embodies the spirit of rock music – relentless, passionate, and always evolving. The top 10 Europe songs celebrate this remarkable band’s contribution to rock music, showcasing their dynamic range and the timeless quality of their sound.
# 10 – Seven Door Hotel
“Seven Door Hotel,” a standout track from Europe’s debut album, showcases the band’s early promise and the distinctive storytelling of Joey Tempest, the lead vocalist. The song’s genesis was inspired by Tempest’s viewing of the Italian horror film The Beyond, directed by Lucio Fulci. This cinematic influence imbues “Seven Door Hotel” with a narrative depth and atmospheric quality that sets it apart from conventional rock songs.
The song’s connection to The Beyond—with its themes of the supernatural and the unknown—lends an intriguing layer to the lyrics, inviting listeners into a world that is both haunting and compelling. The imagery of the “Seven Door Hotel” serves as a metaphorical crossroads of fate and destiny, echoing the eerie ambiance of the film that inspired it.
Upon its release, “Seven Door Hotel” resonated particularly well with audiences in Sweden and Japan, contributing significantly to Europe’s growing popularity. The song’s success in these markets was instrumental in establishing Europe’s international fan base.
#9 – War of Kings
In 2014, Europe took a significant step towards ensuring their growth and evolution as a band by signing a deal with UDR Records. This period marked a pivotal moment in their career, as they sought to refine their sound and explore new musical territories. Their collaboration with producer Dave Cobb played a crucial role in this phase of their journey. Dave Cobb, known for his work with a variety of artists across different genres, brought a fresh perspective to Europe’s music. After listening to some of the band’s demos, Cobb saw potential but also room for enhancement, particularly in the songwriting department. His involvement in the creative process led to the development of “War of Kings,” a track that would become a standout on Europe’s 2015 album of the same name.
The genesis of “War of Kings” can be traced back to a compelling riff by John Leven, Europe’s bassist. The lyrics, inspired by the tumultuous history of Scandinavia, draw on the legendary era of Vikings and the historical conflicts among the Danes, Swedes, and Norwegians. This thematic choice imbued the song with a sense of depth and gravitas, connecting Europe’s modern sound with the rich tapestry of their homeland’s past.
# 8 – New Love in Town
“New Love in Town,” a heartfelt track from Europe’s eighth studio album, Last Look at Eden, occupies a special place in the band’s discography and within the hearts of their fans. The inspiration for this song comes from a deeply personal event: the birth of lead vocalist Joey Tempest’s son. This significant life moment imbues the song with an emotional depth and sincerity that resonates with listeners, showcasing a more intimate side of the band.
The decision to shoot the music video for “New Love in Town” in Gothenburg, under the direction of the renowned Patric Ullaeus, reflects the band’s commitment to capturing the song’s essence visually. Ullaeus, known for his ability to translate musical emotion into compelling imagery, was the perfect choice to helm the video, adding an extra layer of artistic sophistication to the song’s presentation.
Joey Tempest’s vocals in “New Love in Town” are particularly noteworthy, as they convey both the joy and the profound change that comes with welcoming a new life into the world. His performance is complemented by Mic Michaeli’s masterful keyboard work, which adds a rich, melodic texture to the song. Together, their contributions create a musical experience that is both uplifting and deeply moving.
#7 – I’ll Cry for You
“I’ll Cry for You,” a poignant track from Europe’s 1991 album Prisoners in Paradise, captures the emotional turbulence and vulnerability of falling in love. This song stands out for its heartfelt lyrics and emotive composition, depicting a man overwhelmed by the depth of his feelings for a woman. The collaboration between Joey Tempest and Nick Graham, the former Atomic Rooster vocalist and bassist, brought a unique blend of musical influences and lyrical depth to “I’ll Cry for You.” The song’s success, particularly in the United Kingdom where it peaked at number 28 on the UK Singles Chart, underscores its widespread appeal.
#6 – Prisoners in Paradise
The title track from Europe’s 1991 album, “Prisoners in Paradise,” stands out for Joey Tempest’s skillful and evocative songwriting. The song navigates the complex emotions of achieving long-sought-after goals, only to find oneself yearning for the simplicity of the past. This nuanced exploration of success and regret resonates deeply, making the song universally relatable. Musically, the track is enriched by the talents of guitarist Kee Marcelo and keyboardist Mic Michaeli, whose backing vocals add a compelling layer to the composition
#5 – Superstitious
“Superstitious,” a standout track from Europe’s album Out of This World, holds a special place in the band’s repertoire, particularly for its dynamic live performances. A unique feature of their live rendition of “Superstitious” includes a segment from Bob Marley’s iconic song “No Woman, No Cry.” This unexpected fusion adds depth and surprise to Europe’s performances, showcasing their ability to blend musical influences and pay homage to legendary artists. Thanks to its compelling composition, the song achieved notable success, reaching number 31 on the Billboard Hot 100.
#4 – Rock the Night
Following the release of two albums with the Swedish label Hot Records, Europe’s burgeoning success paved the way for a pivotal transition to Epic Records, positioning them for international acclaim. This significant move coincided with the creation of “Rock the Night,” a song that encapsulates the band’s exuberance and enjoyment derived from their early tours and successes in the rock music scene. ” Featured on their breakthrough album The Final Countdown, “Rock the Night” solidified its place as one of Europe’s most memorable tracks, garnering significant attention on both UK and US charts.
#3 – Open Your Heart
Europe’s “Open Your Heart” is a compelling power ballad that first made its appearance on their 1984 album, Wings of Tomorrow, and was later re-released as a single from their 1988 album, Out of This World.The two iterations of Europe’s “Open Your Heart” offer slight variations, enriching the song’s texture and demonstrating the band’s willingness to revisit and refine their work to enhance its emotional and musical impact. Despite these differences, the core message of the song remains consistent, centered around vulnerability, love, and the plea for openness in relationships. Joey Tempest’s distinctive vocals are a key element of the song’s appeal, imbuing it with depth and sincerity. The instrumental arrangement complements Tempest’s delivery perfectly, blending powerful guitar riffs and dynamic keyboard sequences to create a rich sonic backdrop that elevates the emotional intensity of the ballad.
#2 – Carrie
Everyone loved this one.”Carrie” was released on Europe’s third studio album, The Final Countdown; it captures the essence of heartache and the struggle to find the right words in the wake of a breakup. Crafted by Joey Tempest and Mic Michaeli, the song delves into the emotional turmoil of ending a relationship, making it a deeply resonant track for anyone grappling with the complexities of love and loss. The inspiration behind “Carrie” stems from Tempest’s reflections on the fleeting nature of relationships during his younger years, capturing the pain of casual breakups and the quest for new beginnings. This personal touch adds a layer of authenticity to the song, reflecting the universal experience of navigating the highs and lows of young love.
With its emotive lyrics and stirring musical arrangement, “Carrie” stands out as one of Europe’s most impactful ballads, particularly in the United States, where it resonated strongly with audiences. The song’s success on the other side of the Atlantic is a testament to its universal themes and the band’s ability to craft music that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries.
#1 – The Final Countdown
Topping the list of the top 10 Europe songs, “The Final Countdown” stands as a monumental anthem in the rock genre, distinguished by its apocalyptic yet hopeful narrative. This iconic track delves into the grand theme of embarking on a journey to space, driven by the inevitability of seeking new horizons beyond Earth. Joey Tempest’s significant contribution to the song’s success is undeniable; his talents shine through in the compelling lyrics, the unforgettable keyboard riff that opens the track, and his powerful vocal performance.
“The Final Countdown” transcends the conventional boundaries of a rock ballad, combining a stirring melody with thought-provoking lyrics that capture the imagination of listeners worldwide. The song’s global appeal is evident in its remarkable chart performance, securing the number one spot in approximately 25 countries, including the UK and Germany, which speaks volumes about its universal resonance.
Photo: MrPanyGoff, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Top 10 Europe Songs article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024
