It was supposed to be a throwaway track, but Nick Heyward's carefree ditty 'Fantastic Day' ended up changing the course of Haircut 100's history. In a surprising twist, even the band's own bassist Les Nemes confessed to hating this catchy tune that dominated British airwaves in 1982.
Fast-forward to 1978, when Heyward first conjured 'Fantastic Day' in a tiny basement room plastered with punk rock icons – not exactly the most conventional place for a pop masterpiece. The song's genesis was sparked by youthful exuberance and an innate desire to create music that could match the likes of Andy Partridge or David Byrne. In his small, ship-like room at the Ski Club of Great Britain, where his parents ran the bar, Heyward began experimenting with just three chords – D, C, and G – warbling out the title phrase like a kid bursting to break free.
'Fantastic Day' was no overnight sensation. The lyrics evolved organically, with Heyward's childhood stammer actually helping him improvise more freely rather than worrying about perfect rhymes. Those early lines, "Well there's a great amount of strain about getting on that train," were inspired by Sheena Easton's '9 to 5' – and the song's bittersweet edge was a direct reflection of Heyward's frustration with his commercial art job and his longing for music stardom. That spoken-word section, "I tried to shave myself / Be a happier guy," came later in the studio recording – a poignant touchstone that still resonates today.
Producer Bob Sargeant played matchmaker, bringing together Heyward's adoration of The Beatles with his own creative flair. The result? A trumpet fanfare and jazzy G sixth chord that paid homage to 'She Loves You' in the most subtle yet effective way possible. But even with its polished sound, 'Fantastic Day' didn't start out as we know it today – Nemes recalls earlier versions performed under their Moving England moniker, which were more urgent and Talking Heads-esque.
Despite Nemes's lukewarm feelings for 'Fantastic Day', he acknowledges its seismic impact on the band's career. That fateful showcase for Arista Records saw them play the song against all odds – and it proved to be their turning point. The label executives took notice of its irresistible chorus, and the rest is history. Nemes may have preferred other tracks on 'Pelican West', but even he can't deny the enduring appeal of 'Fantastic Day'.
For Heyward, this song remains a time capsule – a snapshot of his musical dreams taking flight in 1978. And as it continues to travel the world with him, 'Fantastic Day' remains an unforgettable testament to the power of that initial spark of creativity.