"Missing" is the signature hit by British duo Everything but the Girl, originally released in 1994 on their album Amplified Heart. Written by Tracey Thorn and Ben Watt, the song found modest success in its original, guitar-driven form but became a global phenomenon after a 1995 remix by house producer Todd Terry transformed it into a dancefloor classic123.
Background and Success
- Original Version: The album version is a gentle, mid-tempo ballad, with folk and jazz influences reflecting the band's earlier sound143. The lyrics tell of longing and heartbreak, with Thorn haunting the street of an ex-lover, missing him "like the deserts miss the rain"53.
- Todd Terry Remix: The remix introduced a pulsing house beat and infectious dance groove, making the song a club staple and driving its worldwide success124. This version reached number three in the UK and number two in the US, spending a record-breaking 55 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping charts in multiple countries1243.
Musical and Cultural Impact
- Genre Fusion: "Missing" is notable for blending emotional songwriting with electronic dance music, paving the way for future crossovers between indie/alternative and club genres12. The remix’s success marked a turning point for Everything but the Girl, influencing their subsequent move toward electronic music.
- Critical Acclaim: The song is widely regarded as a dance and pop classic, included in Rolling Stone and Billboard lists of the greatest dance songs of all time1. It is praised for its melancholic lyrics, Thorn’s evocative vocal performance, and its enduring, bittersweet mood123.
- Influence: "Missing" inspired artists across genres for its seamless integration of emotional depth and danceable beats, and remains a touchstone for both club and adult contemporary audiences2.
Lyrics and Themes
- Longing and Heartache: The song’s narrator is consumed by the absence of a former lover, returning to their old street and reflecting on what’s lost53. The iconic line, "And I miss you, like the deserts miss the rain," captures the depth of longing and emptiness that follows a breakup3.
- Universal Resonance: The song’s emotional honesty and simple, direct imagery have made it relatable to listeners worldwide, contributing to its lasting popularity.
Chart Performance
- UK Singles Chart: #3 (remix)
- US Billboard Hot 100: #2 (remix), 55 weeks on the chart (record at the time)
- #1 in Germany, Canada, Italy, and several other countries1243
Conclusion
"Missing" by Everything but the Girl is a timeless fusion of heartbreak and dancefloor euphoria. Its transformation from a gentle ballad to a global dance hit via Todd Terry’s remix not only changed the band’s trajectory but also left a lasting mark on pop and electronic music, resonating with generations of listeners through its poignant lyrics and unforgettable melody123.
