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Steptacular
Steptacular
Steptacular
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Steptacular
Studio album by
Steps
Released25 October 1999
Recorded1998–1999
StudioPWL Studios, Sarm East, The Workhouse (London)
Genre
Length55:25
LabelJive
Producer
  • Mark Topham
  • Karl Twigg
  • Pete Waterman
  • Andrew Frampton
  • Dan Sanders
  • W.I.P
Steps chronology
Step One
(1998) 		Steptacular
(1999) 		Buzz
(2000)
Singles from Steptacular
  1. "Love's Got a Hold on My Heart"
    Released: 12 July 1999
  2. "After the Love Has Gone"
    Released: 11 October 1999
  3. "Say You'll Be Mine"
    Released: 13 December 1999
  4. "Deeper Shade of Blue"
    Released: 3 April 2000
  5. "When I Said Goodbye/Summer of Love"
    Released: 3 July 2000
Professional ratings
Review scores
SourceRating
AllMusicStarStar[1]
Yahoo! Music UKStarStarStarStar[2]

Steptacular is the second studio album by British pop group Steps, released in the United Kingdom on 25 October 1999, through Jive Records.[3] The album was accompanied by five singles; "Love's Got a Hold on My Heart", "After the Love Has Gone", "Say You'll Be Mine", "Deeper Shade of Blue" and "When I Said Goodbye" all hit the UK top 5, making Steptacular the first Steps album to contain six consecutive UK top-five hits. Steptacular debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart, and it remained on the position for three weeks, selling 260,000 copies in the same time frame.

The album was reissued on vinyl for the first time ever in February 2024.[4][5] It debuted at number 5 on the UK Vinyl Albums Chart.[6]

Background and release

[edit]

Like the group's debut album, Steptacular also contains covers, including a song originally released by female pop group Bananarama entitled "Movin' On", "Make It Easy on Me" originally recorded by Sybil and "Deeper Shade of Blue" originally recorded by Tina Cousins. The album also includes the group's version of "Tragedy", which was originally recorded for the Bee Gees tribute album Gotta Get a Message to You, which was released shortly after Step One. Early UK copies of the album featured a holographic silver "STEPS" logo on front. It was also released in cardboard and tin boxed sets, internationally.

Commercial performance

[edit]

On 31 October 1999, the album debuted at number one in the United Kingdom and remained for three consecutive weeks.[7][8][9] The album sold 84,000 units in its first week—only 1,000 copies ahead of Westlife's debut album, Westlife, beating the Irish boy band.

Track listing

[edit]
Steptacular track listing
No.TitleWriter(s)Producer(s)Length
1."Tragedy"
4:30
2."After the Love Has Gone"
  • Topham
  • Twigg
  • Waterman
4:35
3."Love's Got a Hold on My Heart"
  • Andrew Frampton
  • Waterman
  • Frampton
  • Waterman
3:19
4."Say You'll Be Mine"
  • Frampton
  • Waterman
  • Frampton
  • Waterman
3:33
5."I Think It's Love" (Claire solo)
  • Topham
  • Twigg
  • Ellington
  • Topham
  • Twigg
  • Waterman
4:28
6."Make It Easy on Me" (Lisa solo)
  • Mike Stock
  • Matt Aitken
  • Waterman
Work in Progress3:34
7."Deeper Shade of Blue"
  • Topham
  • Twigg
  • Topham
  • Twigg
  • Waterman
4:16
8."Movin' On"
Work in Progress3:29
9."Never Say Never Again"
  • Frampton
  • Waterman
  • Frampton
  • Waterman
3:51
10."When I Said Goodbye"
  • Topham
  • Twigg
  • Topham
  • Twigg
  • Waterman
3:30
11."I Surrender"
  • Topham
  • Twigg
  • Topham
  • Twigg
  • Waterman
3:42
12."Since You Took Your Love Away" (Faye solo)
  • Frampton
  • Waterman
  • Frampton
  • Waterman
4:35
13."My Best Friend's Girl" (H solo)
  • Topham
  • Twigg
  • Ellington
  • Topham
  • Twigg
  • Waterman
3:40
14."You're Everything That Matters to Me"Jackie James
  • Dan Sanders
  • Waterman
4:23
Canadian bonus tracks[10]
No.TitleWriter(s)Length
15."Last Thing on My Mind"
  • Stock
  • Waterman
  • Dallin
  • Woodward
3:04
16."5, 6, 7, 8"
  • Barry Upton
  • Steve Crosby
3:22
Japanese bonus tracks[11]
No.TitleWriter(s)Length
15."Just Like the First Time"
  • Frampton
  • Waterman
3:28
16."One for Sorrow" (Tony Moran's 7-inch remix)
  • Topham
  • Twigg
  • Ellington
3:30
Australian edition[12]
No.TitleWriter(s)Length
1."After the Love Has Gone"
4:35
2."Say You'll Be Mine"
  • Frampton
  • Waterman
3:33
3."Tragedy"
4:30
4."Love's Got a Hold on My Heart"
3:19
5."I Think It's Love" (Claire solo)
  • Topham
  • Twigg
  • Ellington
4:28
6."Make It Easy on Me" (Lisa solo)
  • Stock Aitken Waterman
  • Mike Stock
  • Matt Aitken
  • Waterman
3:34
7."Deeper Shade of Blue"
  • Topham
  • Twigg
4:16
8."Movin' On"
3:29
9."Never Say Never Again"
  • Frampton
  • Waterman
3:51
10."When I Said Goodbye"
  • Topham
  • Twigg
3:30
11."I Surrender"
  • Topham
  • Twigg
3:42
12."Since You Took Your Love Away" (Faye solo)
  • Frampton
  • Waterman
4:35
13."My Best Friend's Girl" (H solo)
  • Topham
  • Twigg
  • Ellington
3:40
14."You're Everything That Matters to Me"Jackie James4:23
15."Just Like the First Time"
  • Frampton
  • Waterman
3:28
16."One for Sorrow" (Tony Moran's 7-inch remix)
  • Topham
  • Twigg
  • Ellington
3:30
Limited edition bonus CD[13][14][15]
No.TitleLength
1."After the Love Has Gone"4:35
2."After the Love Has Gone" (W.I.P. mix)5:37
3."To Be Your Hero"3:50
4."One for Sorrow" (Tony Moran's 7-inch remix)3:30

Notes

  • Steptacular was released in Australia with a revised track listing, including two bonus tracks.
  • Steptacular was released in Hong Kong, Malaysia and Taiwan in a boxed set limited edition, containing the UK track list of the album and the CD single for "After the Love Has Gone".

Personnel

[edit]

Charts and certifications

[edit]

Release history

[edit]
Release history and formats for Steptacular
Country Release date Format Label Catalogue
Japan[33] 13 October 1999 Standard edition (CD + bonus tracks) Jive / AVEX AVCZ-95126
UK 25 October 1999 Limited Edition/Holographic logo (CD) Jive / Ebul 0519442
Standard edition (CD) 051994-2
Standard edition (cassette) 051994-4
Australia[33] 25 October 1999 Limited edition (CD + collector card and sticker) Jive / Zomba 051956-2
Netherlands[33] 25 October 1999 Standard edition (CD) Jive / EBUL 051994-2
Hong Kong[33] November 1999 Limited edition (2 CD + cardboard boxed set) ROD 9145-4
Taiwan[33] November 1999 Limited edition (2 CD + tin boxed set)
Canada[33] 22 February 2000 Standard edition (CD + bonus tracks) Jive / EBUL 01241-44167-2
Germany[33] 20 March 2000 Standard edition (CD)
Worldwide 23 February 2024 Vinyl Jive

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Steptacular

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Steptacular is the second studio album by the British pop group Steps, released on 25 October 1999 through . The record, produced primarily by and collaborators, features 14 tracks blending upbeat , , and elements, including covers like "" and originals such as "Love's Got a Hold on My Heart". Upon release, Steptacular debuted at number one on the , where it remained for four weeks and spent a total of 66 weeks. It also topped the Scottish Albums Chart and Official Independent Albums Chart, achieving similar success across physical and end-of-year rankings. The album has been certified four times platinum by the (BPI) in the UK for sales exceeding 1.2 million units, contributing significantly to Steps' commercial dominance in the late pop scene. Steptacular produced six singles, several of which became top-five hits in the UK. Lead single "Love's Got a Hold on My Heart" peaked at number two, followed by "After the Love Has Gone" at number five. "Say You'll Be Mine", released as a double A-side with "Better the Devil You Know", reached number four, while "Deeper Shade of Blue" charted at number four. The album also includes the earlier double A-side "Heartbeat / Tragedy", which hit number one in late 1998 and became Steps' first chart-topping single. Closing singles "When I Said Goodbye / Summer of Love" peaked at number five, extending the album's promotional run into 2000. These releases solidified Steps' reputation for catchy, choreographed pop anthems, supporting their live performances and the subsequent Steptacular Tour.

Background and development

Group context

Steps was formed in May 1997 as a five-member British dance-pop group comprising vocalists Claire Richards, Faye Tozer, Ian "H" Watkins, Lee Latchford-Evans, and Lisa Scott-Lee. The lineup assembled after the members responded to an advertisement placed in the entertainment magazine The Stage seeking performers for a new pop project. Shortly thereafter, producer Pete Waterman, renowned for his work with acts like Kylie Minogue through his PWL label, took the group under his wing, signing them and envisioning them as a high-energy ensemble blending pop melodies with dance elements. Waterman's involvement helped refine their early material, leading to their debut single "5,6,7,8" in late 1997, which introduced their coordinated choreography and catchy hooks. The group's debut album, , arrived in October 1998 and marked their breakthrough, peaking at number two on the and earning multi-platinum certification. Key singles from the record, including "" (UK number fourteen), "" (UK number six), and the double A-side "Heartbeat/Tragedy" (UK number one), propelled Steps into the spotlight amid the late 1990s UK pop revival. These tracks exemplified their accessible, feel-good style, with selling over 1.4 million copies in the UK. Steps' rapid ascent was fueled by their signature upbeat pop sound—characterized by shimmering synths, infectious choruses, and ABBA-inspired harmonies—paired with meticulously rehearsed dance routines that became a hallmark of their live shows and music videos. This formula resonated strongly with a teenage audience navigating the era's boy-band and girl-group explosion, positioning Steps as a staple of the British pop scene alongside contemporaries like S Club 7 and Five. By mid-1999, the group had amassed over 3 million record sales globally, creating label expectations for a quick successor to capitalize on their momentum.

Album conception

Following the success of their debut album , which established Steps as a rising force in British pop, the conceptualization of Steptacular began in early 1999, building on their initial momentum. The album's title, Steptacular, references the band's name and their energetic performance style. It included cover "," alongside original tracks, centered on danceable pop anthems. Pete Waterman, who oversaw the project's direction, collaborated closely with to accelerate the timeline, pushing for a swift release in late 1999 to capitalize on the group's surging popularity and avoid losing chart momentum. This strategic haste aligned with an emphasis on high-energy production elements, ensuring the material mirrored the vibrant, upbeat nature of Steps' live shows and reinforced their identity as a dynamic pop act.

Recording and production

Studio sessions

The recording sessions for Steptacular took place from 1998 to 1999, primarily at PWL Studios in and , with additional sessions at The Workhouse Studios and Sarm East Studios in . During these sessions, Steps re-recorded the ' "" with modern production twists, including updated arrangements to fit their signature style.

Key collaborators

The production of Steptacular was led by Pete Waterman, with contributions from Mike Stock and Matt Aitken of the Stock Aitken Waterman (SAW) team on several tracks, alongside other producers such as Andrew Frampton, who co-produced multiple tracks including providing keyboards and bass performances. Songwriting for the album's originals was handled primarily by Waterman, Frampton, and the SAW team, with notable contributions to tracks like "Deeper Shade of Blue," written by Waterman, Stock, and Aitken. The standout single "Love's Got a Hold on My Heart" was co-written by Waterman and Frampton, blending catchy hooks with dance-oriented melodies. The production team also arranged covers of classic tracks, including the Bee Gees' "Tragedy," selected for its disco roots to evoke nostalgia and energy in Steps' performance. Guest musicians and session players played crucial roles in shaping the sound, with contributions from backing vocalists and instrumentalists such as Dan Frampton on guitar and bass, enhancing the album's polished, layered pop aesthetic. Overall, Steptacular comprises 14 tracks, where the collaborative efforts emphasized accessible, high-energy pop tailored for mainstream appeal.

Composition and musical style

Genre and influences

Steptacular is predominantly an upbeat Europop and bubblegum pop album, infused with disco and hi-NRG elements that emphasize its energetic, dance-oriented sound. The production draws heavily from the hi-NRG and synth-pop styles associated with Stock Aitken Waterman (SAW), the powerhouse trio behind many 1980s and 1990s British pop hits, as several tracks were penned and produced by Pete Waterman and collaborators. This results in catchy hooks, pulsating synths, and infectious rhythms. Key influences include 1970s , particularly the , whose dramatic flair and falsetto-driven arrangements are echoed in the album's cover of their 1979 hit "," which opens the record with a high-energy reinterpretation. The album also reflects the 1990s movement, akin to the ' empowering, fun-loving anthems, contributing to its lighthearted yet emotionally resonant vibe within the bubblegum pop genre. Overall, these influences manifest in a blend of nostalgic revival and contemporary pop accessibility. The album comprises 10 original tracks and 4 covers, including "Make It Easy on Me" (originally by Sybil), "Deeper Shade of Blue" (), and "Movin' On" (), prioritizing memorable melodies and group harmonies over complex instrumentation. Thematically, it centers on , heartbreak, and playful , with most songs featuring danceable tempos—for instance, "Tragedy" at 123 BPM and "Love's Got a Hold on My Heart" at 129 BPM—to ensure high energy and replay value.

Song structures

The songs on Steptacular predominantly follow a verse-chorus-verse structure augmented by pre-choruses and bridges, creating a familiar pop framework that emphasizes catchy hooks and dynamic builds suitable for dance routines. This format is evident in tracks like "," which opens with verses leading into a pre-chorus buildup before exploding into the chorus, while "" employs a similar progression with melodic pre-choruses that echo earlier Steps hits. Bridges often introduce contrast, such as the middle-eight in "Love's Got a Hold on My Heart," where a vocal ad-lib heightens emotional tension before returning to the chorus. Group harmonies and call-and-response vocals are heavily utilized to reinforce the ensemble dynamic, blending the five members' voices into layered choruses that prioritize collective energy over individual solos. In "Tragedy," the chorus features overlapping vocals from all members, creating a unified that masks personal distinctions and amplifies the track's anthemic quality. Similarly, "Love's Got a Hold on My Heart" relies on backing harmonies to support lead lines from and , fostering a responsive interplay that mirrors the group's choreographed performances. Lyrical themes center on romantic in original compositions, exemplified by "," which explores melancholy acceptance of a faded relationship through of fleeting tomorrows and lingering yesterdays, ultimately resolving in hopeful release. Covers, such as "," reinterpret nostalgic disco-era heartbreak with a buoyant pop lens, transforming tales of lost love into upbeat declarations that evoke emotional amid cheerful delivery. Notable musical elements include synthesizer-driven instrumentation that infuses tracks with shimmering, electronic textures, as seen in the bubblegum synths underscoring the guitar riff in "Tragedy" and the oriental-flavored synth layers in "After the Love Has Gone." Four-on-the-floor beats provide a propulsive rhythm foundation, with snappy Europop percussion driving "Tragedy" and an uptempo shift propelling "After the Love Has Gone" into danceable territory. Track lengths are consistently choreographed-friendly, ranging from 3 to 4 minutes, allowing seamless integration into live shows and videos without excessive repetition.

Singles and promotion

Lead single

"Love's Got a Hold on My Heart" served as the from Steps' second studio album, Steptacular, released on July 12, 1999, by . Written and produced by Andrew Frampton and , the track features lead vocals from and exemplifies the group's signature upbeat with infectious hooks and harmonious . As a precursor to the album's release in October 1999, the single helped reintroduce Steps to audiences following their debut Step One, building momentum through its summery, feel-good vibe. The single debuted at number 4 on the UK Singles Chart on July 24, 1999, before climbing to its peak position of number 2 the following week, where it remained for one week and spent a total of 14 weeks in the top 100. This performance marked another strong showing for Steps, narrowly missing the top spot to Ronan Keating's "When You Say Nothing at All." Overall, it amassed over 289,000 sales in the UK, earning a Silver certification from the (BPI) for shipments exceeding 200,000 units. The track's chart success underscored Steps' growing popularity and set the stage for Steptacular's number 1 album debut. Promotion for the single included a vibrant directed by Dani Jacobs, filmed on the beaches of , , showcasing the group in iconic canary-yellow outfits performing elaborate synchronized dance routines against a Mediterranean backdrop. Steps amplified the hype through live television performances on programs such as and CD:UK, where their high-energy delivery captivated viewers and tied directly into the album's impending launch. These efforts highlighted the single's role in maintaining the group's appeal. Critics and fans received "Love's Got a Hold on My Heart" positively for its lighter, more mature production compared to prior releases, praising its radiant energy and Richards' confident vocals as a fresh evolution in Steps' sound. Described as exuding "sunshine and warmth," the track was hailed as one of the group's strongest to date, contributing to their reputation as purveyors of escapist pop anthems. Its release solidified Steps' commercial footing ahead of Steptacular, influencing follow-up singles by emphasizing accessible, radio-friendly melodies.

Follow-up releases

Following the lead single "Love's Got a Hold on My Heart", which peaked at number 2 on the UK Singles Chart in July 1999, Steps released several follow-up singles from Steptacular to maintain album visibility. The second single, "", was issued in October 1999 and reached number 5 on the UK Singles Chart, spending 12 weeks in the top 100. This track, a mid-tempo pop , was promoted through a filmed at , featuring Asian-inspired choreography with dragon motifs and group synchronization to highlight the band's cohesive dynamics. The single received additional exposure via live performances on in late 1999, where Steps delivered an energetic rendition emphasizing vocal harmonies and dance routines. Subsequent releases included "Say You'll Be Mine" (a double A-side with a cover of "Better the Devil You Know") in January 2000, which charted at number 4, and "Deeper Shade of Blue" in April 2000, peaking at number 4. The final single from the album, "When I Said Goodbye" (double A-side with "Summer of Love"), arrived in July 2000 and also reached number 5 on the UK Singles Chart, enduring for 14 weeks. Its black-and-white music video, directed by Simon Brand and shot in Rome, adopted a more cinematic style to underscore emotional group interplay, departing from the colorful aesthetics of prior clips. Like its predecessors, it was supported by radio airplay and a live Top of the Pops appearance in 2000, featuring a poignant ballad delivery. These four follow-up singles, released over approximately nine months, collectively sustained the album's chart presence by blending upbeat pop with ballad elements, ensuring Steptacular remained a commercial force into 2000.

Commercial performance

Sales figures

Steptacular achieved strong commercial sales upon its release, selling 890,000 copies in the during 1999 alone, followed by an additional 310,000 units in 2000, surpassing 1.2 million copies within its first year. The album's debut at number one on the was supported by robust initial demand, driven by pre-release buzz from hit singles like "Love's Got a Hold on My Heart." Several factors contributed to these figures, including its strategic release on , 1999, which positioned it well for the holiday shopping season and boosted end-of-year purchases. Strong pre-sales from preceding singles further enhanced accessibility and appeal to fans. Sales received an additional lift in 2000 from the accompanying Steptacular Tour, which sustained momentum and drove the album's ongoing performance. The album has been certified four times platinum by the (BPI) for sales exceeding 1.2 million units in the UK. Internationally, the album sold 1,000,000 copies across according to IFPI data, alongside 25,000 in and 29,550 in .

Chart achievements

Steptacular debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart, holding the top position for four weeks and spending 66 weeks on the chart overall. The album's strong initial performance saw it sell 84,000 copies in its first week, narrowly blocking Westlife's self-titled debut from reaching number one by just 1,000 units. The album demonstrated significant longevity, continuing to chart into 2000, with its position bolstered by the ongoing success of its singles.

Critical reception

Initial reviews

Upon its release in October 1999, Steptacular received mixed reviews from critics, who praised its fun and escapist pop qualities while criticizing its reliance on formulaic covers. Critics commonly emphasized Steps' inherent charm and infectious dance appeal, which made the record a for many, yet faulted it for showing little innovation compared to their debut.

Retrospective assessments

In the years following its release, Steptacular has undergone a significant reevaluation, transitioning from perceptions of lightweight bubblegum pop to recognition as a vibrant emblem of late-1990s British culture. Music publications have highlighted the album's role in capturing the era's exuberant spirit, with its blend of high-energy covers and original tracks embodying an unapologetic celebration of joy amid the saturation. This shift is evident in retrospective analyses that praise Steps for defying critics through sheer persistence and fan devotion, positioning Steptacular as a cornerstone of their legacy. Once derided as "trashy pop," the album's club-oriented sound—exemplified by tracks like "Deeper Shade of Blue"—now garners respect for its bold production and choreographed spectacle, appealing to a broad audience that includes a substantial LGBTQ+ following who found empowerment in its escapist anthems. By the 2020s, Steptacular is frequently cited in discussions of pop history as classic, its glittery and feel-good resonating as a nostalgic for personal milestones like during the late and early . The album's reissues, including limited-edition vinyl pressings in 2024, further underscore this enduring cultural relevance, with formats that emphasize its status as a pop artifact worthy of rediscovery.

Track listing and formats

Standard track listing

The standard edition of Steptacular, released on 25 October 1999 by , features 14 tracks with a total runtime of 55:25. The track listing for this CD release, including songwriters and durations, is as follows:
No.TitleWriter(s)Duration
1, , 4:30
2, Mark Topham, Karl Twigg4:35
3Love's Got a Hold on My HeartAndrew Frampton, 3:20
4Say You'll Be MineAndrew Frampton, 3:33
5I Think It's Love, Mark Topham, Karl Twigg4:28
6Make It Easy on Me, Mike Stock, 3:34
7Deeper Shade of BlueMark Topham, Karl Twigg4:16
8Movin' On, , Mike Stock, 3:29
9Andrew Frampton, 3:51
10When I Said GoodbyeMark Topham, Karl Twigg3:30
11I SurrenderMark Topham, Karl Twigg3:42
12Since You Took Your Love AwayAndrew Frampton, 4:35
13My Best Friend's Girl, Mark Topham, Karl Twigg3:40
14You're Everything That Matters to MeJackie James4:23
The standard UK edition is identical to the international release in terms of track listing.

Special editions

In addition to the standard CD release, Steptacular was issued in various alternate formats during its initial run, including cassette and mini-disc variants that mirrored the core track listing but catered to different consumer preferences in the UK and Europe. These formats maintained the album's 14 tracks, such as the cover of "Tragedy" and "Love's Got a Hold on My Heart," without additional content. International editions often featured bonus material to appeal to local markets. For instance, the Taiwanese limited edition included a bonus cassette with the single "After the Love Has Gone," packaged in a collector's tin , while the Hong Kong version came as a 2-CD set with an extra disc containing the W.I.P. mix of "After the Love Has Gone," "To Be Your Hero," and "One For Sorrow." The 2001 Japanese reissue added two bonus tracks: "Just Like The First Time" and "One For Sorrow (Tony Moran's 7" Remix)," providing beyond the original lineup. Although no verified Japanese edition includes a of "Heartbeat" (a track from Steps' debut Step One), these regional variants highlighted remixes and exclusives tailored for export markets. Digital reissues emerged in the 2010s through streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, offering the standard album with occasional bonus audio in expanded compilations, such as live performances from the Steptacular Tour. These digital formats emphasized accessibility, allowing fans to access the full track listing alongside related singles without physical media limitations. The album saw its first vinyl pressing in 2024 as part of a reissue series, available in neon yellow, green StepSwirl, and zoetrope picture disc variants, each with painstakingly rebuilt original artwork, additional images, and comprehensive liner notes detailing production insights. This edition, limited in production, celebrated the album's enduring appeal while introducing it to a new generation of vinyl collectors.

Personnel and credits

Performers

The primary performers on Steptacular were the five members of the British pop group Steps: Claire Richards, Faye Tozer, Ian "H" Watkins, Lee Latchford-Evans, and Lisa Scott-Lee, who handled all lead and group vocals across the album's tracks. Richards often took lead on ballads, such as the album's closing track "When I Said Goodbye," where she shares primary verses with Watkins and Scott-Lee while the group provides harmonies in the chorus and bridge. Tozer contributed prominently to harmonies and shared leads on upbeat tracks like "Love's Got a Hold on My Heart," Watkins handled many verses on mid-tempo songs, and Scott-Lee delivered high notes in choruses throughout the record. The group performed collective vocals on the choruses of most songs, emphasizing their synchronized pop style. Guest performers included backing vocalists Andrew Frampton, Bernadette Barlow, , Mae McKenna, and Mary Carewe, who provided additional layered support on several tracks. The album featured no major solo instrumental performances, but session musicians contributed guitar (e.g., Dan Frampton on track 3), bass (e.g., Dan Frampton on track 4), and keyboards (e.g., Steve Parker on tracks 6 and 8), enhancing the pop production without overshadowing the vocal focus.

Production team

The production team for Steptacular was led by executive producer , a key figure in the album's creation through his PWL Studios, where much of the recording and mixing took place. Waterman also served as producer on select tracks, including contributions to drums and overall sound shaping. Primary producers included Andrew Frampton, Dan Frampton, Mark Topham, and Karl Twigg. Mike Stock handled mixing duties on several tracks, bringing a polished pop sheen to songs like "Make It Easy on Me" and "Movin' On." Recording engineers included Dan Frampton (on multiple tracks including 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 9, 12, 14, and 15), Chris McDonnell (tracks 10, 11, and 13), and Greg Bone (tracks 2, 5, and 7), with Al Unsworth assisting on track 14. Recording took place at PWL Studios, with additional sessions at The Workhouse and Sarm East. Visual and packaging elements were handled by , responsible for the album's vibrant design, while photography was credited to , capturing the group's dynamic imagery. The album was mastered at Metropolis Mastering in , finalizing its bright, energetic sound for release.

Legacy and reissues

Cultural impact

Steptacular played a pivotal role in establishing Steps as enduring icons of British pop, cementing their reputation for unashamed, high-energy that blended catchy melodies with dramatic flair. The album's success, including multiple chart-topping singles, highlighted their unique formula of upbeat tracks paired with emotional depth, which has continued to resonate in pop music. This approach influenced the landscape of pop by emphasizing synchronized and accessible, feel-good anthems that prioritized performance and visual spectacle. The album's tracks extended Steps' reach into broader pop culture, appearing in notable media of the era. For instance, "Happy Go Lucky" was featured on the soundtrack of the 2001 romantic comedy The Princess Diaries, contributing to the film's lighthearted, youthful vibe and exposing the group to international audiences through Disney's popular teen-oriented production. Additionally, Steps' music has been used in long-running British TV series like , embedding their sound in everyday cultural narratives. Their exaggerated choreography, especially from hits like "Tragedy," became a reference point for nostalgic memes and viral recreations on platforms during the , often highlighting the group's campy, over-the-top style as a hallmark of late-90s excess. Steps' visual aesthetic, characterized by bright, coordinated outfits in music videos and performances, mirrored and amplified teen fashion trends of the early , promoting synchronized group looks that echoed the era's emphasis on fun, colorful ensembles. In the 2020s, the "" dance routine experienced a significant revival on , where users recreated the iconic moves, generating widespread engagement and introducing the choreography to new generations through user-generated challenges. This resurgence underscores the album's lasting footprint, as Steps' joyful, inclusive ethos—particularly their support for LGBTQ+ representation—continues to inspire contemporary artists and drag performers who draw from their dramatic pop blueprint. In 2024, Steps produced the stage musical Here & Now, incorporating several Steptacular tracks such as "Deeper Shade of Blue" and "", with performances continuing into 2025 across the and .

Later releases

Following the original 1999 release of Steptacular, several reissues and related media expanded its availability. In October 2000, a live recording from the band's Steptacular Tour at Wembley Arena was issued as [email protected] on VHS and VCD formats, capturing performances of key tracks like "Tragedy" and "Love's Got a Hold on My Heart" to promote the album's hits. Tracks from Steptacular were prominently featured in subsequent compilations. The 2001 greatest hits album Gold included staples such as "Tragedy," "After the Love Has Gone," and "Say You'll Be Mine," contributing to its chart-topping success and multi-platinum status. Similarly, the 2022 compilation Platinum Collection incorporated several Steptacular singles, including "Tragedy" and "Deeper Shade of Blue," alongside the band's broader catalog to mark 25 years since their debut. In the digital era, Steptacular saw vinyl reissues for the first time in 2024 via Demon Records, available in limited editions such as neon yellow, green swirl, and variants, each pressed on 140-gram vinyl with restored artwork and . These editions debuted at number 5 on the Vinyl Albums Chart, reflecting renewed interest in the album's era-defining pop sound. The album has also been accessible via major streaming platforms since the , with options enhancing its production quality for modern listeners.

Charts

Weekly charts

Steptacular entered the Albums Chart at number one on the chart dated 31 October 1999. The album held the top position for four consecutive weeks. The following table summarizes the album's peak positions and total weeks on selected weekly album charts.
Chart (1999–2000)PeakWeeks on chart
Albums (OCC)166
Australian Albums (ARIA)252
Belgian Albums ( )215
Dutch Albums (MegaCharts)464
Swedish Albums ()466

Year-end charts

In the , Steptacular achieved significant year-end success, ranking at number 8 on the Official Charts Company's end-of-year albums chart for 1999 with sales of 890,000 units. The album's enduring popularity carried into the following year, placing at number 49 on the 2000 UK year-end albums chart with an additional 310,000 units sold. These figures underscored Steps' strong market presence during the period, as the album's sustained performance complemented their third studio release Buzz, contributing to the group's status as one of the UK's top-selling acts of 2000 through combined album and single sales. Internationally, Steptacular saw more modest results in year-end compilations. It reached number 88 on the 1999 European Top 100 Albums year-end chart compiled by Music & Media, reflecting limited but notable penetration across continental markets.
Year-End Chart (1999)PositionSales (UK)
8890,000
European Top 100 Albums88N/A
Year-End Chart (2000)PositionSales (UK)
49310,000

Certifications

Certifications by country

Steptacular achieved certifications in multiple countries based on shipments recorded during 1999 and 2000. In the , the album was certified 4× Platinum by the (BPI) in 2000, denoting shipments exceeding 1.2 million units. In , awarded it Platinum certification in 2000 for 15,000 units shipped.
CountryAwardUnits sold/shippedCertification date
4× Platinum1,200,0002000
Platinum15,0002000

Release history

Initial release

Steptacular was first released in the on 25 October 1999 by , an imprint of Zomba Recording Corporation, and distributed by BMG. The album entered the the following week at number one. It was issued in multiple physical formats, including (catalog number 0519442), cassette (catalog number 0519544), and (catalog number 0519606). Internationally, the album followed in and during November 1999 through Jive and local distributors, though there was no initial release in the United States. The Australian edition included bonus tracks "Just Like the First Time" and "One for Sorrow" (Tony Moran's 7" Remix). A standard edition was reissued in the UK on 20 March 2000.

Reissue dates

The album became available digitally on iTunes in 2009, expanding access to its original tracklist for streaming and download platforms. In 2024, the album received its first vinyl pressing on February 23, a limited 140g neon yellow edition released via Demon Records, aimed at collectors and vinyl enthusiasts. In August 2025, a reissue of the neon yellow vinyl was released.

References

  1. https://www.discogs.com/master/88556-Steps-Steptacular
  2. https://www.bibleinmylanguage.com/steps-steptacular-cd-album/
  3. https://www.officialcharts.com/albums/steps-steptacular/
  4. https://bestsellingalbums.org/album/44278
  5. https://www.officialcharts.com/artist/3866/steps/
  6. https://www.discogs.com/artist/85366-Steps
  7. https://www.officialcharts.com/chart-news/inside-the-hit-factory-steps-biggest-singles-revealed-__4426/
  8. https://bestsellingalbums.org/artist/12378
  9. https://www.bpi.co.uk/award/8592-XXXX-5X-UK/
  10. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/steps-mn0000749743
  11. https://www.hiponline.com/3288/steps.html
  12. https://www.classicpopmag.com/features/steps-interview-in-a-way-we-were-kind-of-punk-rock/
  13. https://www.discogs.com/release/1743702-Steps-Steptacular
  14. https://genius.com/albums/Steps/Steptacular
  15. https://secondhandsongs.com/artist/69580/all
  16. https://www.whosampled.com/Steps/Tragedy/
  17. https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-18142676
  18. https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-36714177
  19. https://getsongbpm.com/song/tragedy/xvpnz
  20. https://getsongbpm.com/song/love-s-got-a-hold-on-my-heart/zKrv5
  21. https://www.cantstopthepop.com/2024/08/26/steps-tragedy/
  22. https://www.cantstopthepop.com/2020/10/05/steps-after-the-love-has-gone/
  23. https://www.cantstopthepop.com/2020/07/06/steps-loves-got-a-hold-on-my-heart/
  24. https://music.apple.com/us/album/steptacular/292747682
  25. https://www.discogs.com/master/88548-Steps-Loves-Got-A-Hold-On-My-Heart
  26. https://www.officialcharts.com/songs/steps-loves-got-a-hold-on-my-heart/
  27. https://www.gensteps.co.uk/steps/chartruns.php
  28. https://www.discogs.com/release/1763608-Steps-After-The-Love-Has-Gone
  29. https://generationsteps.co.uk/news/steps-embrace-a-new-sound-with-loves-got-a-hold-on-my-heart/
  30. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt13070638/
  31. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M6ukcgkBr5o
  32. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt13070732/
  33. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w6kHMEzwb3A
  34. https://www.theaudiodb.com/album/2129308-Steps-Steptacular
  35. https://www.buzzmag.co.uk/steps-live-review/
  36. https://open.spotify.com/album/4SHxRDZ1isIdrxfunwZ9vD
  37. https://musicbrainz.org/release/031d996c-e76d-4149-a99a-ad75a53d0db1
  38. https://www.discogs.com/release/7768064-Steps-Steptacular
  39. https://991.com/buy/productlisting.aspx?ArtistName=Steps&FullDiscography=on&Page=7&Sort=
  40. https://www.amazon.com/Steptacular-140-Gram-Yellow-Colored-Vinyl/dp/B0CPFT675R
  41. https://www.discogs.com/release/29904991-Steps-Steptacular
  42. https://genius.com/Steps-when-i-said-goodbye-lyrics
  43. https://genius.com/Steps-loves-got-a-hold-on-my-heart-lyrics
  44. https://www.mikestockmusic.com/steps-make-it-easy-on-me
  45. https://music.apple.com/gb/song/movin-on/292747749
  46. https://www.bbc.com/bbcthree/article/00c9b19d-d65c-4ffc-80d7-48ea7d9d8207
  47. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3173419/
  48. https://thestepsmusical.com/
  49. https://www.discogs.com/release/588367-Steps-LiveWembley2000
  50. https://www.discogs.com/release/24305828-Steps-Platinum-Collection
  51. https://www.discogs.com/release/29908945-Steps-Steptacular
  52. https://www.officialcharts.com/charts/albums-chart/19991031/7502/
  53. https://australian-charts.com/showitem.asp?interpret=Steps&titel=Steptacular&cat=a
  54. https://www.ultratop.be/nl/showitem.asp?interpret=Steps&titel=Steptacular&cat=a
  55. https://dutchcharts.nl/showitem.asp?interpret=Steps&titel=Steptacular&cat=a
  56. https://swedishcharts.com/showitem.asp?interpret=Steps&titel=Steptacular&cat=a
  57. https://www.bpi.co.uk/brit-certified/
  58. https://www.rmnz.org.nz/certifications/
  59. https://www.discogs.com/release/1801817-Steps-Steptacular
  60. https://www.gensteps.co.uk/steps/discography/steptacular.php
  61. https://www.officialcharts.com/chart-news/steps-step-one-steptacular-buzz-vinyl/
  62. https://musiczone.ie/product/steps-steptacular-neon-yellow-vinyl/
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