“Fame” by Irene Cara

“Fame is a song which anyone who was alive, cognizant and in front of a television set in 1980s’ America is likely familiar with. And in a way it is kinda like an earlier version of the types of motivational tunes which artists such as DJ Khaled would come out with some decades later. 

However, unlike more-modern songs of ambition, in this case the vocalist is not after money but rather fame, which within the entire context of this song may be one in the same, but still. And whereas the latter two verses read romantic in nature, as generally understood what the singer is referring to is blowing up and more specifically doing so in the entertainment field. Her ultimate goal is not only to obtain a sense of liberation through her endeavors but also, in going all out, to achieve the type of “fame” which will cause her name to “live forever”.

When was “Fame” released?

The song “Fame” was recorded and performed by American singer and songwriter Irene Cara. In mid-1980 this pop song was released as the first single from the soundtrack album of the 1980 teen musical film of the same name.

This track is Cara’s first-ever single and one of her most successful works. Reaching #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 is an example of the song’s numerous achievements. “Fame” also reached #1 on the official music charts in multiple regions including the United Kingdom, Belgium, New Zealand, and the Netherlands. It peaked inside the top 5 in the following countries:

• South Africa
• France
• Australia
• Sweden

Academy Award

This track has received multiple prominent accolades. In 1981 for instance, it picked up the “Academy Award for Best Original Song”.

Did Irene Cara write “Fame”?

No. American songwriters, Dean Pitchford and Michael Gore were responsible for authoring this single. Production was also overseen by both writers.

Covers

Over the years, this pop song has been covered by many recording artists. A version of the track was performed by American actress and singer Erica Gimpel in 1982.

Brazilian singer Sandra de Sá recorded and performed a version of the song in 1996. Other artists who have created their versions of this single include:

• Mary Wells (in 1982)
• The Chipmunks (in 1982)
• Loretta Chandler (in 1986)
• Patti Ravell (in 1995)
• Lorena (in 2008)
• Naturi Naughton (in 2009)
• Lesley Wolman (in 2013)

The “Fame” Movies and TV Series

In addition to being the title song of the iconic 1980 film “Fame”, the track was also used as the theme song of a TV series of the same name. This series was also based on the “Fame” film.

The soundtrack album for “Fame” was put out by RSO Records on May 16 of 1980. It was promoted by a total of three singles. “Out Here on My Own” and “Red Light” are the second and third singles from this soundtrack album, and they were both issued in August 1980.

To note, Cara was one of the cast members of “Fame”. And in the film, her character, Coco Hernandez, performed this song.