About the song
“Nikita” by Elton John is one of the standout tracks from the 1980s, and it marked a significant departure from his earlier, more rock-oriented work. Released in 1985 as a single from his album “Ice on Fire”, “Nikita” quickly became one of the most memorable songs of the decade. The album itself was a critical and commercial success, though the track “Nikita” is often cited as the most iconic song from the record.
The song features a blend of synthesizer-driven pop and classic Elton John melodies, characteristic of the mid-80s sound. It was written by Elton John and his longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin, whose lyrics reflect a fascinating blend of personal longing and political commentary. The story of “Nikita” is about a man who falls in love with a woman he can never have due to political circumstances. Nikita, a border guard from the Soviet Union, represents the Cold War tension of the era. While the lyrics speak to the emotional distance between the two characters, they also serve as a reflection on the divisions between East and West during the height of the Cold War. The yearning in Elton’s voice, paired with the poignant lyrics, made it a powerful commentary on love in a politically charged world.
The music video for “Nikita” is also notable for its depiction of the East-West divide. It was one of the first videos by a Western artist to be filmed in East Germany at a time when the Berlin Wall was still a symbol of separation. The video shows Elton John trying to communicate with a Soviet border guard, and the imagery of the wall and the soldiers is unmistakably symbolic. This gave the song a deeper level of meaning, resonating with the political landscape of the time.
On the charts, “Nikita” was a hit, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and charting in multiple countries around the world. Its commercial success was a testament to Elton John’s ability to evolve with the times while maintaining his distinct voice. The track, with its catchy chorus and smooth melody, became one of the defining songs of the mid-80s pop scene.
The song’s impact extended beyond music. “Nikita” was one of the tracks that helped Elton John maintain his relevance in the 1980s, a decade when many 70s artists struggled to adapt to the changing musical landscape. In particular, “Nikita” was a symbol of how Elton John had successfully navigated the evolving nature of pop music, melding his established songwriting prowess with the technological and stylistic changes of the time.
In terms of cultural influence, “Nikita” became more than just a pop song; it became part of the conversation about the politics of the Cold War. The song’s portrayal of a forbidden love between two people on opposite sides of the political spectrum resonated deeply with people living in the divided world of the 1980s. It subtly conveyed the longing for peace and the desire to break down barriers.
In conclusion, “Nikita” remains a defining song in Elton John’s career, capturing both his evolution as an artist and the social and political climate of the 1980s. The song’s timeless appeal lies in its emotionally charged lyrics, its evocative music, and its politically charged undertones, making it one of Elton John’s most enduring hits.
Video
Lyrics
Hey Nikita, is it coldIn your little corner of the world?You could roll around the globeAnd never find a warmer soul to knowOh, I saw you by the wallTen of your tin soldiers in a rowWith eyes that looked like ice on fireThe human heart, a captive in the snowOh, Nikita, you will never knowAnythin’ about my homeI’ll never know how good it feels to hold you (hold you)Nikita, I need you soOh, Nikita, is the other sideOf any given line in timeCountin’ ten tin soldiers in a rowOh no, Nikita, you’ll never knowDo you ever dream of me?Do you ever see the letters that I write?When you look up through the wireNikita, do you count the stars at night?And if there comes a timeGuns and gates no longer hold you inAnd if you’re free to make a choiceJust look towards the west and find a friendOh, Nikita, you will never knowAnythin’ about my homeI’ll never know how good it feels to hold you (hold you)Nikita, I need you soOh, Nikita, is the other sideOf any given line in timeCountin’ ten tin soldiers in a rowOh no, Nikita, you’ll never knowOh, Nikita, you will never knowNever know anythin’ about my homeI’ll never know how good it feels to hold youNikita, I need you soOh, Nikita, is the other sideOf any given line in timeCountin’ ten tin soldiers in a rowOh no, Nikita, you’ll never knowCountin’ ten tin soldiers in a row(Nikita)Countin’ ten tin soldiers in a row, woo-ooh-hoo-ooh(Nikita)Countin’ ten tin soldiers in a row(Nikita)