Released in 1982, it was Culture Club's third attempt at a hit. A last-minute slot on Top of the Pops after Shakin' Stevens pulled out catapulted the song to No. 1 in the UK.

For an in-depth look at the definitive piece is The Guardian's "How we made" feature . This article includes rare, firsthand accounts from Boy George and drummer Jon Moss , detailing how a simple drum machine rhythm evolved into a global reggae-pop hit. Why the Song Mattered

While listeners were drawn to the smooth melody, the lyrics addressed themes of homophobia and victimization . The music video, depicting Boy George "on trial" for being different, was a bold statement during the early MTV era.

“The perfectly plucked eyebrows and smokey-eyed androgyny donned by lead singer Boy George was too much for some viewers” www.songsthatsavedyou.com

People often recall the shock and fascination that Boy George’s appearance generated when the song first aired.