About the Song
When discussing the late 80s and early 90s, the Swedish duo Roxette, comprising Per Gessle and the late, great Marie Fredriksson, inevitably comes up. Their blend of pop-rock was infectious, and “The Look” stands as a prime example of their ability to craft catchy, enduring songs. Released in 1988, this track propelled them to international stardom, and it’s easy to see why.
What’s particularly interesting about “The Look” is its somewhat accidental rise to fame in the United States. Before official promotion, an American exchange student returning from Sweden brought the song back to a local radio station in Minneapolis. The station began playing it, and the response was overwhelming. This grassroots popularity quickly spread, leading to the song’s official release and subsequent chart-topping success.
Musically, “The Look” is a vibrant, upbeat track. Its driving beat, combined with those distinctive guitar riffs and Marie Fredriksson’s powerful vocals, creates an undeniably memorable sound. It’s a song that captures the spirit of its time, with that distinct 80s production quality that still holds up today.
Per Gessle’s songwriting is also a key factor in the song’s appeal. The lyrics are simple yet effective, creating a sense of playful confidence. And when combined with Marie Fredriksson’s dynamic delivery, they become truly irresistible.
Beyond its musical merits, “The Look” also represents a significant moment in the international music scene. It demonstrated that a non-English-speaking act could achieve massive success in the English-dominated pop world. Roxette paved the way for other Scandinavian artists, proving that talent and a great song could transcend language barriers.
To this day, “The Look” remains a staple of 80s playlists and a favorite among fans of classic pop-rock. It’s a testament to Roxette’s talent and their ability to create music that’s both timeless and undeniably fun.