On this day April 1 1989 Eternal Flame by The Bangles hit number 1 on the US Billboard Hot 100 where it stayed through April 7. The emotional ballad also soared to number 1 in the UK, Ireland, Belgium, Portugal, Norway, Netherlands and Australia.
Written by Susanna Hoffs along with Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly the song showcased a softer side of the band and became one of their most iconic hits. Eternal Flame remains a staple of late 80s pop and helped solidify The Bangles’ status as one of the era’s most successful all female bands.
80s insight: Susanna Hoffs recorded the vocals for Eternal Flame while naked in the studio after producer David Kahne convinced her it would help capture vulnerability an idea inspired by Olivia Newton-John doing the same during a past session.