Steps made waves on both sides of the pond with Something In Your Eyes, the second single from their latest album, ‘What The Future Holds’ – but according to the group, the track almost didn’t make it out.
The song, originally performed by Jenny Silver at Sweden’s Eurovision selection show, Melodifestivalen, in 2011, was met with critical acclaim upon its release and remains one of Steps’ most streamed hits since the release of the LP.
However, speaking to Retro Pop, they admitted not everyone was convinced the song was a good fit for the band.
“There were a big question mark over Something In Your Eyes,” says Claire Richards.
“When we first decided to record it, not everybody felt the same. But I think the proof is in the pudding to a certain degree.
“The fans absolutely love it because it’s kind of old Steps in a way – but done now,” she reflects. “It was how people probably remember us… but you’re right, it is a fantastic pop song and it was perfect.
“The whole video and everything was… it was all another level.”
In addition to its success in the UK, following its live debut at the ‘Royal Variety Performance’, Something In Your Eyes saw an increase in streaming and downloads worldwide – particularly in the US.
“I think anything that takes off in America from us is always a surprise, because we’ve never really… we toured with Britney [Spears], but we didn’t go back to really capitalise on it,” admits Lee Latchford-Evans.
“We’ve had [success] in the UK, in certain parts of Europe and Southeast Asia but, when it hits America. it’s always it’s always a little bit shocking.
“We all enjoyed America, it was good fun, and to have a hit in America is amazing. I’m very happy about that. But yeah… always shocked, wonder why, not sure how… Of course, we’ll take it every time!”
And when it comes to hunting down more tracks similar to Something In Your Eyes, Steps aren’t ruling out revisiting the Melodifestivalen vaults.
While Lee insists it’s “all about the song,” the group is happy to “have an opportunity and have options” when it comes to picking their next hits.
Teases Claire: “We’re always on the lookout for good pop songs, and the Swedes do them probably better than most most of the time – certainly that suit us.”
Last month, Steps released their new track, Heartbreak in this City, featuring Michelle Visage, as the fourth single from ‘What The Future Holds’.
The track, co-written by classic Steps collaborator Karl Twigg and Stella Attar, became a firm favourite among fans following the release of the group’s sixth album.
Chatting to Retro Pop, Claire Richards insisted the collaboration with Michelle “couldn’t be more perfect,” revealing: “I think if we’re going to do it with anybody, then she is actually the perfect choice.
“She’s even more camp than we are – which is a feat in itself!”
