Last in, first out – Heat Of The Moment was the final song Asia recorded for their self-titled debut album. But it was the first single they released. The video was directed by Godley & Creme, who were also behind the cameras for the clip accompanying second single Only Time Will Tell.
Backed with Ride Easy, Heat Of The Moment reached No.46 in the UK in 1982, but it went to No.4 in the US, and it closed every show on their first tour. Late frontman John Wetton told Prog about writing the song in 2015.
Where did the inspiration for Heat Of The Moment come from?
The lyric is an apology. I had never come across that in an anthemic rock song before - ever! In fact, the whole first Asia album marked a conscious departure from art rock to personal lyrics. The song is just me saying, “I fucked up!” I held my hand up and admitted I was wrong – “I never meant it to be like that, and so I’m sorry.”
It was written for my girlfriend Jill, who later became my wife. I started writing it in 1980 when I was with Wishbone Ash. We were doing the Number The Brave album at Criteria Studios in Miami. I stayed behind every night after we’d finished recording and worked on song ideas, and this was one of them.
What did you think of the reaction to the song?
The reaction from the public and radio to the song was phenomenal. Everybody seemed to love it, and we got a huge response from MTV in America, who played the video constantly.
Did having such a big hit make you feel like pop stars?
Yes and no. We were in our 30s and we’d all been around the block before, but that amount of exposure brings a certain caché. Most ordinary people were aware of the song, if not the band who performed it. Later on it was used in the movie The 40 Year Old Virgin. I loved the scene where the main character, played by Steve Carell, is accused of being gay by a couple of his mates – because he has an Asia poster on his wall!
Was having a hit a blessing or curse?
Having a Top 40 hit was great for album sales. There was no down side. I’m proud of it – everyone knows Heat Of The Moment!
