Everybody Wants to Rule the World
“Everybody Wants to Rule the World” is a 1985 song by the English pop rock band Tears for Fears.
“Everybody Wants to Rule the World” is a 1985 song by the English pop rock band Tears for Fears. It was the third single from their album *Songs from the Big Chair* and became one of their most famous recordings.
What it is
The song was released on 18 March 1985 through Phonogram, Mercury, and Vertigo Records. It appears on Tears for Fears’ second studio album, *Songs from the Big Chair*, as the third single.
Key details
The track was written by Roland Orzabal, Ian Stanley, and Chris Hughes, with Hughes also producing. It is described as pop rock, new wave, and synth-pop, with an upbeat sound that contrasts its serious themes.
Why it matters
The lyrics are widely interpreted as dealing with power, control, domination, and corruption. The song remains one of Tears for Fears’ best-known and most enduring tracks, recognized for its cultural reach and lyrical depth.
In short
- Released 18 March 1985 as third single from *Songs from the Big Chair*
- Written by Roland Orzabal, Ian Stanley, and Chris Hughes
- Themes of power, control, and corruption
- One of Tears for Fears' best-known songs
Quick questions
Who recorded “Everybody Wants to Rule the World”?
When was the song released?
What is the song about?
Sources
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Everybody_Wants_to_Rule_the_WorldSupports: Song identity, artist, album, writers, producer, release date, labels, and single order.
- Wikipedia (Ukrainian) — https://uk.wikipedia.org/wiki/Everybody_Wants_to_Rule_the_WorldSupports: Genre description and thematic summary; release date; writers; producer.
- Wikipedia (Hebrew) — https://he.wikipedia.org/wiki/Everybody_Wants_to_Rule_the_WorldSupports: Song identity, album, writers, producer, release date, and thematic description.
- Wikipedia (Chinese) — https://zh.wikipedia.org/wiki/Everybody_Wants_to_Rule_the_WorldSupports: Song identity, release date, writers, producer, genre, and themes.
- Smooth Radio — https://www.smoothradio.com/features/the-story-of/everybody-wants-to-rule-the-world-lyrics-meaning/Supports: General meaning of the lyrics and the song’s enduring popularity.
- Reverb Machine — https://www.reverbmachine.com/blog/tears-for-fears-everybody-wants-to-rule-the-world-synths/Supports: Legacy as a standout Tears for Fears track, release context, and common genre framing.