Don’t Turn Around
Single
In 1993, Swedish pop group Ace of Base recorded a minor-key version of “Don’t Turn Around” for their US debut album, The Sign (1993). It was the follow-up to their successful single, “The Sign“, and was also included on the re-release of Happy Nation the same year.
Their version reached number one in Canada, number four in the US and number five in the UK. It was the third most popular song in the United States in the summer of 1994.
Don't turn around
Reliving the Magic of "Don't Turn Around" by Ace of Base
In 1993, Ace of Base recorded a minor-key version of "Don't Turn Around" for their US debut album, The Sign. Serving as a follow-up to their successful single "The Sign," their version was also included in the re-release of Happy Nation the same year. The track achieved great success, reaching number one in Canada, number four in the US, and number five in the UK. In fact, it was the third most popular song in the United States during the summer of 1994.
Global Success and Enduring Popularity
"Don't Turn Around" was a massive hit worldwide and remains one of Ace of Base's most successful songs to date. It reached number one on the RPM Top Singles chart in Canada, as well as the US Billboard Adult Contemporary chart and the Cash Box Top 100.
The track also made it to the top ten in numerous European countries and beyond. Furthermore, it earned Gold certification in Germany, New Zealand, and the United States, with impressive sales figures in each country.
Arista's Involvement and the Recording Process
After the remarkable success of Happy Nation, American label Arista aimed to release the album with new tracks for the US market. They suggested Ace of Base create a cover of British reggae group Aswad's 1988 version of "Don't Turn Around."
The band recorded and produced their rendition at Tuff Studios in Gothenburg, Sweden, even including a rap segment by band member Ulf Ekberg.
Airplay Dominance and Chart Performance
Entering the European airplay chart Border Breakers at number 20 on April 2, 1994, "Don't Turn Around" quickly gained traction due to crossover airplay in Central Europe. The track peaked at number one twice and, along with "The Sign," monopolized the number one or two spot on Border Breakers for an impressive 36 weeks.
Filming and Scenic Locations
Ace of Base filmed a memorable music video for "Don't Turn Around," directed by Swedish-based director Matt Broadley.
The video masterfully intertwined scenes of a couple leaving each other with shots of the band on a beach and in a beach house. Filmed in Coconut Grove, Miami, Florida, in December 1993, the picturesque lighthouse in the video is located in Bill Bags Cape Florida State Park on Key Biscayne, one of Miami's barrier islands.
In Conclusion
This track by Ace of Base remains a timeless classic that has left a lasting impression on the music scene. The track's chart success, unique rendition, and unforgettable music video have forever etched its place in pop history.
FAQs
What is "Don't Turn Around" by Ace of Base about?
This song is a song about a couple breaking up, and the music video reflects this theme with scenes of a couple parting ways.
When was the Ace of Base version of "Don't Turn Around" released?
The track was released in 1994 as part of their US debut album, The Sign.
What chart success did "Don't Turn Around" achieve?
The song reached the top ten in numerous countries and earned Gold certification in Germany, New Zealand, and the United States.