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"The Reflex" (remix)
Dance mix version artwork
Single by Duran Duran
from the album Seven and the Ragged Tiger
B-side
Released16 April 1984 (1984-04-16)[1]
Genre
Length
  • 5:29 (album version)
  • 4:25 (single version)
  • 6:36 (dance mix)
Label
Songwriters
Producers
Duran Duran singles chronology
"New Moon on Monday"
(1984) 		"The Reflex" (remix)
(1984) 		"The Wild Boys"
(1984)
Alternative cover
US 7" sleeve
Music video
"The Reflex" on YouTube

"The Reflex" is the eleventh single by the English pop rock band Duran Duran, released on 16 April 1984. The song was heavily remixed by Nile Rodgers and Jason Corsaro for the single release. It was the third and last to be taken from their third studio album Seven and the Ragged Tiger (1983). The single became the band's first to reach the top of the Billboard Hot 100 and their second to top the UK Singles Chart. On Billboard's chart, it also became the first of two songs blocking Bruce Springsteen's "Dancing in the Dark" from reaching number one (along with Prince's "When Doves Cry").

Critical reception

[edit]

Cash Box wrote: "Spotlighting the slick vocals of Simon Le Bon and the tight Euro-pop rhythms set to a funk beat, 'The Reflex' will certainly cause a stir for current fans and it will probably reach a new, more dance oriented crowd."[6]

Music video

[edit]

Main photography of the music video for "The Reflex" took place during the Seven and the Ragged Tiger tour at Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on 5 March 1984. Director Russell Mulcahy filmed some of the close-up footage in the indoor arena that afternoon, and the band's performance was filmed live during that evening's concert.[7]

B-sides, bonus tracks and remixes

[edit]

In addition to the 4:26 single remix, the 12" also includes an extended remix of "The Reflex". The live B-side "Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me)" is a cover version of a Steve Harley & Cockney Rebel song, recorded 16 November 1982 at Hammersmith Odeon in London, England, with lead Rebel Steve Harley joining the band onstage.

A second live B-side released on the U.S. single, "New Religion", was recorded on 7 February 1984 at the Forum in Los Angeles, California. This is not the same live version that appears on the album Arena (1984).

Formats and track listings

[edit]

7": EMI / Duran 2 United Kingdom

  1. "The Reflex" – 4:20
  2. "Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me)" (live) – 4:54 (recorded live at Hammersmith Odeon, London, 16 November 1982)

12": EMI / 12 Duran 2 United Kingdom

  1. "The Reflex" (dance mix) – 6:35
  2. "The Reflex" [7" version] – 4:20
  3. "Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me)" (live) – 4:54 (recorded live at Hammersmith Odeon, London, 16 November 1982)

7": Capitol / B-5345 United States

  1. "The Reflex" (the dance mix—edited) – 4:25
  2. "New Religion" (live in L.A.) – 4:52 (recorded live at the Forum, Los Angeles, 7 February 1984)
  • The "dance mix—edited" version is the same version as the regular 7".

12": Capitol / V-8587 United States

  1. "The Reflex" (dance mix) – 6:35
  2. "The Reflex" (the dance mix—edited) – 4:25

CD: Part of Singles Box Set 1981–1985

  1. "The Reflex" – 4:20
  2. "Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me)" (live) – 4:54 (recorded live at Hammersmith Odeon, London, 16 November 1982)
  3. "The Reflex" (dance mix) – 6:35

Charts

[edit]

As of October 2021, "The Reflex" was the fourth-most streamed Duran Duran song in the UK.[40]

Certifications and sales

[edit]
Region Certification Certified units/sales
Canada (Music Canada)[41] Platinum 100,000^
Netherlands (NVPI)[42] Gold 75,000^
United Kingdom (BPI)[43] Gold 500,000^
United States (RIAA)[44] Gold 500,000^

^ Shipments figures based on certification alone.

Cover versions

[edit]

Cover versions have been recorded by Less Than Jake[45] and the duo of Kylie Minogue and Ben Lee.[46]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

The Reflex

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
"The Reflex" is a song by the English new wave band Duran Duran, serving as the third single from their third studio album, Seven and the Ragged Tiger, which was released on November 21, 1983.[1] The track was originally produced by Alex Sadkin, Duran Duran, and Ian Little during recording sessions in a French chateau and on the island of Montserrat, but the single version was a remix by Nile Rodgers and Jason Corsaro that shortened the original 5:29 album version to 4:26 and incorporated sampled vocal effects like the repeated "re-re-re-reflex."[2] Released in April 1984 on EMI Records, the remixed single propelled Duran Duran to international superstardom.[3] The song's lyrics, written by Duran Duran members Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes, Andy Taylor, John Taylor, and Roger Taylor, evoke themes of instinctive reactions and emotional responses in relationships, though frontman Le Bon has described it as an ambiguous "childish song" open to interpretation, with fans suggesting meanings related to betrayal, addiction, or gut feelings.[2] Musically, it features the band's signature synth-driven sound blended with funky basslines and danceable rhythms, characteristic of their early 1980s style that blended pop, rock, and electronic elements. The official music video, directed by Russell Mulcahy, showcases the band performing in a stylized, high-energy setting with abstract visuals, contributing to Duran Duran's reputation for innovative MTV-era promotion.[4] "The Reflex" achieved massive commercial success, debuting on the UK Singles Chart on April 28, 1984, and reaching number one for four consecutive weeks, marking the band's second UK chart-topper after "Is There Something I Should Know?" in 1983.[3] In the United States, it entered the Billboard Hot 100 on April 21, 1984, climbed to number one on June 23, and held the top spot for two weeks, becoming Duran Duran's first—and, until 1985's "A View to a Kill," only—number-one hit on the chart.[5][2] The single's remix transformation was pivotal, turning a mid-tempo album track into a global dance-pop anthem that sold millions and solidified Duran Duran's status as icons of the Second British Invasion.

Background and Production

Development

"The Reflex" was written collaboratively by Duran Duran's core lineup—vocalist Simon Le Bon, keyboardist Nick Rhodes, guitarist Andy Taylor, bassist John Taylor, and drummer Roger Taylor—during the creative sessions for their third studio album, Seven and the Ragged Tiger. Initial songwriting and demo work for the album commenced in March 1983 over a three-month period in the South of France, where the band explored new material amid a transitional phase following the success of their previous records.[6] The song's core groove emerged spontaneously on June 20, 1983, coinciding with John Taylor's 23rd birthday, while the group was immersed in full production at AIR Studios on the Caribbean island of Montserrat.[7] Duran Duran's songwriting process for "The Reflex" followed their established method of building from rhythmic foundations: the band would select a tempo, jam instrumentally to lock in a compelling groove, and then invite Le Bon to improvise lyrics over the emerging structure, resulting in the track's distinctive new wave pulse driven by Rhodes's synthesizers and the Taylors' interlocking bass and guitar lines.[8] Le Bon's contributions yielded oblique, abstract lyrics that evoke themes of instinctual response and inner conflict, often interpreted as a metaphorical exploration of human reflexes in a chaotic world—described by John Taylor as "dark and paranoid" in tone, characteristic of early 1980s art rock ambiguity.[8] This improvisational approach captured the song's energetic, danceable essence during the birthday session, fueled by celebratory champagne, and set the foundation for its evolution into a signature hit.[7] Recording of the original version occurred at AIR Studios in Montserrat from May to June 1983, as part of a broader five-week residency organized by EMI to capture the album's tracks in a secluded, tropical environment.[9] Producer Alex Sadkin, known for his work with synth-pop acts, oversaw the sessions, emphasizing crisp percussion and layered electronics to enhance the band's sound; the studio's state-of-the-art facilities, including early digital samplers, allowed for experimental vocal treatments that hinted at the track's later refinements.[6] Despite logistical challenges like variable tape speeds and the onset of hurricane season, which prompted an early departure on July 25, the band completed a functional album take of "The Reflex" clocking in at around 5:29, featuring prominent Roland Jupiter-8 synth leads and a driving bass riff that underscored its pop-rock hybrid style.[10] This version appeared on Seven and the Ragged Tiger, released in November 1983, marking the song's debut before subsequent remixing elevated its commercial profile.[1]

Recording and Remix

The original version of "The Reflex" was recorded during sessions for Duran Duran's third studio album, Seven and the Ragged Tiger, beginning with songwriting and demo work in March 1983 at a rented chalet near Cannes on the Côte d'Azur in southern France.[6] The band utilized a 24-track mobile studio provided by RAK Studios in London for these initial jam sessions, which lasted approximately three months and focused on capturing raw musical ideas through improvisation.[11] Principal recording took place over six weeks at AIR Studios in Montserrat, West Indies, where producer Alex Sadkin emphasized a rhythmic, dance-oriented sound, shifting from the band's previous collaboration with Colin Thurston.[11] Engineers Phil Thornalley and Pete Schwier handled the technical aspects, with the rhythm section—drums by Roger Taylor and bass by John Taylor—tracked first to establish the track's foundation.[6] Andy Taylor's lead guitar followed shortly after, though specific overdubs for vocals by Simon Le Bon and keyboards by Nick Rhodes were layered dynamically to build the song's atmospheric quality.[6] Final overdubs and mixing occurred in Sydney, Australia, later in 1983, resulting in the album version clocking in at 5:29, which opened the record but was deemed underwhelming for single release due to its sprawling structure and lack of immediacy.[11][2] Recognizing the track's potential, Duran Duran commissioned a remix in early 1984 to transform it into a more radio-friendly hit, drawing inspiration from the production style of INXS's "Original Sin."[2] Nile Rodgers, known for his work with Chic and as a producer for artists like David Bowie, was selected for the task, collaborating with Duran Duran keyboardist Nick Rhodes and engineer Jason Corsaro.[12][11] Working primarily with the existing multitrack tapes, Rodgers employed early sampling techniques and tape editing to condense the song to 4:26, creating the iconic stuttering vocal effect on "re-re-re-flex" by looping and manipulating Simon Le Bon's ad-libs.[2][12] Additional percussive elements, such as steel drums and woodblocks, were accentuated, along with layered vocal hooks like "fleck, fleck, flecks" and "why-yi-yi," to enhance its dancefloor appeal and rhythmic drive.[11] Drummer Roger Taylor praised the remix for turning the track into an "amazing dance track," noting how Rodgers' edits benefited the percussion's prominence.[12] This version, produced under Rodgers' direction, marked one of the band's earliest effective uses of sampling and became the definitive single edition, propelling "The Reflex" to commercial success.[2]

Release and Formats

Single Release

"The Reflex" was released as the third and final single from Duran Duran's 1983 album Seven and the Ragged Tiger on 16 April 1984 by EMI Records in the United Kingdom and most international markets.[13][14] In the United States, Capitol Records issued the single on 21 April 1984.[15] The track was heavily remixed for single release by producer Nile Rodgers and engineer Jason Corsaro, resulting in a more dance-oriented version compared to the original album cut, which emphasized funk elements with a prominent bassline and layered percussion.[16] The single was primarily available in vinyl formats, reflecting standard practices for pop releases in the mid-1980s. The 7-inch single featured the 4:26 edited remix of "The Reflex" as the A-side; B-sides varied by region, including a live version of the album track "New Religion" (recorded at The Forum in Los Angeles on 9 February 1984) in the US and a live recording of Steve Harley's "Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me)" (recorded at London's Hammersmith Odeon on 16 November 1982) in the UK and Europe.[17][18] The 12-inch maxi-single, aimed at dance clubs and radio, included an extended 6:35 "Dance Mix" version on the A-side, with the album version or instrumental edits on the B-side, and was pressed in several countries including the UK, US, and France.[19] These formats supported the song's promotion as a high-energy pop track suitable for both mainstream airplay and extended club play.

Track Listings and Versions

"The Reflex" was released as the eleventh single by Duran Duran on April 16, 1984, through EMI in the UK and Capitol Records in the US, available in multiple vinyl formats including 7-inch and 12-inch singles. The single versions were remixed by Nile Rodgers and Jason Corsaro, emphasizing a funkier, danceable groove compared to the original 5:29 album track from Seven and the Ragged Tiger. These remixes propelled the song to commercial success.[19][20] The 7-inch single featured the edited remix as the A-side and a live cover of Steve Harley's "Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me)"—recorded at London's Hammersmith Odeon on 16 November 1982—as the B-side. The 12-inch edition extended the remix into a "Dance Mix" for club play, often including the 7-inch edit and the live B-side, with some regional variants substituting "New Religion (Live)" (recorded at The Forum in Los Angeles on 9 February 1984) on the B-side. Picture disc editions were issued in the UK and US for collectors. International releases, such as in Japan and Mexico, followed similar track structures but with localized catalog numbers.[21][22] Later digital reissues, including a 2010 remaster, preserved these versions alongside the album original, available on platforms like Apple Music. No official CD single was released in 1984, but compilations have since included the remixes.
FormatTrack TitleDurationNotes
7" SingleThe Reflex (Single Edit)4:26Nile Rodgers remix
Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me) (Live)4:58Recorded live 16 November 1982 at Hammersmith Odeon, London; cover of Steve Harley
12" SingleThe Reflex (Dance Mix)6:35Extended Nile Rodgers remix
The Reflex (7" Version)4:26Standard edit
Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me) (Live)4:58As above; some editions use "New Religion (Live)" (4:52) recorded 9 February 1984 at The Forum, Los Angeles, instead

Commercial Performance

Chart Performance

"The Reflex" achieved significant commercial success upon its release, topping charts in several countries and marking Duran Duran's first number-one hit in the United States. Released in April 1984, the single quickly climbed international rankings, driven by its remix by Nile Rodgers and heavy MTV rotation. In the UK, it entered the Official Singles Chart on April 28, 1984, at number 8, reaching number 1 the following week and holding the top spot for four consecutive weeks before spending a total of 14 weeks on the chart.[3] In the United States, "The Reflex" debuted at number 46 on the Billboard Hot 100 on April 21, 1984, and ascended to number 1 on June 23, 1984, where it remained for two weeks; the song ultimately charted for 15 weeks. The track's strong airplay and sales performance solidified Duran Duran's breakthrough in the American market.[23] The single performed well across Europe and North America, topping the charts in Canada, Ireland, and the Netherlands while reaching high positions elsewhere. In Canada, it reached number 1 on the RPM Singles Chart for one week and spent a total of 14 weeks on the chart. In Ireland, it debuted on April 22, 1984, and held the number 1 position for several weeks, totaling 8 weeks on the Irish Singles Chart. In the Netherlands, "The Reflex" entered the Dutch Top 40 on May 19, 1984, and peaked at number 1 for 5 weeks, accumulating 16 weeks overall. In France, it reached a peak of number 15 and spent 11 weeks on the singles chart.[24][25][26][27]
CountryChartPeak PositionWeeks on ChartSource
United KingdomOfficial Singles Chart114officialcharts.com
United StatesBillboard Hot 100115billboard.com
CanadaRPM Singles Chart114musicvf.com
IrelandIrish Singles Chart18irishcharts.ie
NetherlandsDutch Top 40116dutchcharts.nl
FranceSNEP Singles Chart1511lescharts.com
The song's global reach contributed to its status as one of 1984's top-selling singles, with year-end rankings reflecting its enduring popularity in multiple territories.

Certifications and Sales

"The Reflex" achieved significant commercial success, earning certifications across several markets that reflect its strong sales performance. In Canada, the single was certified Platinum by Music Canada on September 1, 1984, denoting shipments of 100,000 units. In the United States, it received a Gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for sales exceeding 500,000 copies.[28] The track also attained Gold status in the United Kingdom from the British Phonographic Industry (BPI), equivalent to 400,000 combined units of sales and streaming as of 2025.[29] Additionally, it was certified Gold in the Netherlands by NVPI for 50,000 units.[15]
RegionCertificationCertified Units/SalesCertifying BodyDate
CanadaPlatinum100,000Music CanadaSeptember 1, 1984
United StatesGold500,000RIAA-
United KingdomGold400,000BPI-
NetherlandsGold50,000NVPI-
These certifications underscore the single's global appeal and contribution to Duran Duran's success.

Promotion and Media

Music Video

The music video for Duran Duran's "The Reflex" was directed by Russell Mulcahy.[30][4] Principal filming occurred on March 5, 1984, at Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto, Ontario, during the band's Sing Blue Silver tour.[30][31] The footage captures the group—Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes, Andy Taylor, John Taylor, and Roger Taylor—performing the track live before an enthusiastic crowd, reflecting their high-energy stage presence from the era.[30][2] Mulcahy enhanced the concert visuals by incorporating a large video screen behind the band, which displays surreal, abstract imagery to complement the song's themes of instinct and reaction.[2][31] These elements include silhouetted figures with exaggerated lips, a woman in a red dress, and dynamic animations that evoke a dreamlike quality, aligning with Duran Duran's signature MTV-era aesthetic.[2] A notable sequence features white liquid cascading from the screen, directly inspired by Mulcahy's visit to Niagara Falls shortly before the shoot; he arrived early in Toronto but skipped the initial concert rehearsal to explore the falls, later integrating the waterfall's motion into the video's climactic moment.[31][32] Mulcahy recalled, "There’s a sequence in the video where they’re all looking at the gigantic video screen, and you’ll see this gigantic white liquid sort of pouring out of the screen. Which was totally, totally inspired by Niagara Falls."[31] The video, running approximately four minutes, premiered on MTV and played a key role in promoting the single's remix version, contributing to its chart success by blending authentic live energy with Mulcahy's innovative visual effects.[4][32]

Live Performances

"The Reflex" debuted in Duran Duran's live repertoire during their 1983–1984 Sing Blue Silver Tour, supporting the album Seven and the Ragged Tiger. The song quickly became a highlight of the tour, with its music video partially filmed during a performance at Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto on March 5, 1984.[13] This tour marked the track's integration into the band's high-energy stage shows, often featuring elaborate lighting and Simon Le Bon's dynamic vocals amid the group's synchronized movements. The live album Arena, recorded during the 1983–1984 Sing Blue Silver Tour at various venues around the world, captured the era's enthusiasm for the song, though it was not included on the official release.[33] One of the most iconic renditions occurred at Live Aid on July 13, 1985, at John F. Kennedy Stadium in Philadelphia, where "The Reflex" served as the closing number in the band's setlist alongside "A View to a Kill," "Union of the Snake," and "Save a Prayer." Performed before an audience of 100,000 and broadcast to an estimated 1.9 billion viewers worldwide, this appearance solidified the song's status as a live anthem, despite the band's internal tensions following a year-long hiatus from touring.[34] The performance's raw energy and global reach contributed to renewed commercial momentum for Duran Duran post their 1984 peak.[35] In subsequent decades, "The Reflex" remained a consistent fixture in Duran Duran's setlists, adapting to the band's evolving lineup and stylistic shifts. It featured prominently during the 2011 All You Need Is Now Tour, documented in the concert film Duran Duran: Live at the Greek (2012), and the 2012 BT London Live event in Hyde Park, London, as part of the Olympics opening celebrations, where it drew cheers from 80,000 attendees.[36] Collaborations with producer Nile Rodgers, who remixed the original single, added special flair to performances on the 2022 Future Past World Tour, including joint shows at Madison Square Garden and the Hollywood Bowl.[37] The song's enduring appeal is evident in its inclusion across recent tours, such as the 2023–2024 Danse Macabre Tour and the 2025 European leg, where it often segues into covers like Grandmaster Flash's "White Lines" for a high-octane close. These renditions showcase updated arrangements while preserving the track's danceable groove, drawing multigenerational crowds to venues from Red Rocks Amphitheatre to the O2 Arena.[38]

Critical Reception

Initial Reviews

Upon its release in April 1984, "The Reflex" received favorable attention from music critics, particularly for Nile Rodgers' remix that infused the track with a more dynamic and dance-oriented energy compared to the original album version from Seven and the Ragged Tiger. The production was noted for its innovative use of sampling and stuttering vocal effects, which helped propel the single to commercial success on both sides of the Atlantic.[39] In the UK, where the single debuted at number 8 on the Singles Chart, the remix was noted for its distinctive "manically hip-hop-stuttering" rhythm, contributing to its rapid climb to number 1.[40] In the US, the remix was credited for broadening its appeal to American audiences. Simon Le Bon praised the remix as a "magnificent job" that enhanced the song's innovation, contributing to its breakthrough to the top of the Billboard Hot 100.[5]

Retrospective Assessments

In the decades following its release, "The Reflex" has been widely regarded by music critics as one of Duran Duran's most enduring and innovative singles, often highlighted for its transformative remix by Nile Rodgers, which elevated the original track into a polished disco-funk anthem. In a 2014 retrospective ranking of 1984's top singles, Rolling Stone praised the song for its "surrealistic imagery and a tour de force vocal performance by Simon Le Bon," describing it as "a psychedelic trip that’s as fun as it is funky."[41] A 2015 Guardian feature on the band's best tracks positioned "The Reflex" at number seven, noting that Nile Rodgers' remix added swagger and ebullience, turning it into their biggest single.[42] Later assessments have emphasized the song's production sheen and lasting appeal as a pop staple. A 2024 Guardian ranking of Duran Duran's 20 greatest songs placed "The Reflex" at number 16, noting that while "not the greatest Duran Duran song," it stands out as "one of their greatest-sounding singles," with Rodgers "throw[ing] everything at it, including the kitchen sink," resulting in "a joyous, irresistible pop banger."[43] In a 2003 Pitchfork review of the compilation Singles 80-85, the track was singled out as the sole highlight from the Seven and the Ragged Tiger era, "living up to the promise of the earlier hits" amid the album's perceived inconsistencies.[44] A 2021 Albumism tribute to the band's Notorious album retrospectively referred to "The Reflex" as an "already killer tune," underscoring Rodgers' remix as a pivotal moment that refined the band's sound ahead of future collaborations.[45] Critics have also noted the song's role in sustaining Duran Duran's commercial momentum during a transitional period, with a 2011 Guardian live review describing it as "a compelling, preposterous slice of synthpop genius" that continues to captivate audiences, blending eccentricity with infectious energy.[46] Overall, retrospective views affirm "The Reflex" as a high-water mark for the band's ability to merge new wave experimentation with mainstream accessibility, cementing its status as a defining 1980s hit.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

Influence and Covers

"The Reflex" exemplifies the fusion of new wave, synth-pop, and dance music that defined 1980s pop, influencing the genre's shift toward more club-oriented sounds. The track's production, featuring intricate layering of percussion, basslines, and Simon Le Bon's emotive vocals, helped establish Duran Duran as pioneers in blending rock instrumentation with electronic elements, paving the way for future acts in electronic pop.[6] Its infectious rhythm and anthemic structure made it a staple for arena performances, contributing to the era's emphasis on high-energy, visually driven music experiences.[47] Nile Rodgers' remix elevated the song's commercial and cultural reach, transforming the original album version into a global hit that topped charts in multiple countries, including the UK and US. This remix not only captured the pop potential of Duran Duran's material but also highlighted the growing role of remixing in mainstream music production during the 1980s.[39] The track's success underscored the band's impact on MTV-era culture, where music videos like the surreal, water-themed visual for "The Reflex" amplified its thematic exploration of instinct and desire, influencing how pop songs were marketed as multimedia events.[48] The song has inspired numerous covers, demonstrating its enduring appeal. One prominent version is by Kylie Minogue and Ben Lee, featured on the 1999 Australian tribute album Undone – The Songs of Duran Duran, which reinterpreted the track with a bright, modern pop flair while honoring its danceable core.[49] Other notable renditions include live performances by Scala & Kolacny Brothers in a haunting choral style. These covers highlight "The Reflex" as a timeless 1980s artifact, emblematic of the decade's synth-driven sound that continues to resonate in contemporary music.

Usage in Media and Modern Relevance

"The Reflex" has been featured in various films and television shows, often evoking 1980s nostalgia or underscoring themes of youthful rebellion and energy. In the 2003 comedy film American Wedding, the song plays during a chaotic bachelor party sequence, highlighting the film's party-centric humor and contributing to its soundtrack that blends '80s hits with contemporary tracks.[50] Similarly, in the 2015 British romantic comedy Man Up, "The Reflex" accompanies a pivotal dance scene between protagonists played by Lake Bell and Simon Pegg, symbolizing spontaneous joy and romantic connection in a modern rom-com setting.[2] On television, the track appeared in the 2002 episode "Sophia's Depressed" of the sitcom That '80s Show, aligning with the series' period-specific aesthetic. More recently, it featured in the 2022 episode "Axe and Grind" of Better Call Saul (Season 6, Episode 6), where it scores a scene of young Kim Wexler and her mother driving away after a shoplifting incident, subtly nodding to impulsive decisions and era-appropriate soundtrack choices.[51] It also played in Season 2, Episode 6 ("Everybody Hates the Buddy System") of Everybody Hates Chris, enhancing comedic moments of adolescent awkwardness.[52] In contemporary culture, "The Reflex" maintains relevance through Duran Duran's ongoing live performances, where it remains a high-energy staple in their setlists, drawing crowds to relive the band's New Wave legacy. For instance, the band performed the song during their 2025 European tour stops, including shows at Co-op Live in Manchester on October 31, Circo Massimo in Rome on June 15, and Le Zénith in Paris on October 21, often as part of extended medleys that blend their hits with covers.[53][54][55] Tribute acts like The Reflex, an Atlanta-based band, further sustain its popularity by delivering faithful recreations with multimedia elements, touring venues across the U.S. in 2025 to appeal to both original fans and younger audiences discovering '80s synth-pop.[56] The song's enduring appeal is also evident in its inclusion on streaming playlists and occasional remixes, such as the 2025 digital release of the "Dance Mix" version, which reintroduces its funky bassline and stuttering vocals to new generations via platforms like Spotify. These elements underscore "The Reflex" as a timeless artifact of MTV-era pop, bridging nostalgic revivals with modern media consumption.

B-sides and Additional Releases

B-side Tracks

The primary B-side for the UK 7-inch single release of "The Reflex" was a live version of "Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me)", a cover of the 1975 song by Steve Harley & Cockney Rebel. Recorded live at the Hammersmith Odeon in London on 16 November 1982, this rendition runs approximately 4:30 and features the band's energetic stage performance, including extended instrumentation and Simon Le Bon's dynamic vocals. The track was produced by the band and mixed by Ian Little, capturing the raw enthusiasm of their 1982 tour supporting the Rio album.[57] In the United States, the 7-inch single on Capitol Records paired "The Reflex" (Dance Mix - Edited) with a live recording of "New Religion", another track from Rio (1982), clocking in at 4:52. This version was captured live at the Forum in Los Angeles on 7 February 1984 during the band's tour, showcasing their evolving live sound with prominent guitar work from Andy Taylor and the rhythm section interplay. Mixed by Ian Little, it served as an exclusive B-side for the American market, highlighting Duran Duran's growing transatlantic appeal.[58] Certain international formats, such as the French 12-inch maxi-single, included "Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me)" as the B2 track, with a duration of 4:20, while adhering to the live recording from the UK tour. These B-sides were selected to complement the upbeat, dance-oriented A-side, often featuring live elements to appeal to fans seeking concert-like energy beyond the studio polish of the Nile Rodgers remix.[59]

Remixes and Bonus Content

The principal remix of "The Reflex" was produced by Nile Rodgers with engineering by Jason Corsaro, transforming the original album track from Duran Duran's 1983 album Seven and the Ragged Tiger into an extended dance-oriented version using innovative sampling and tape-editing techniques.[12] This "Dance Mix," clocking in at approximately 6:34, was released as the B-side to the 12-inch single in April 1984 by EMI Records, alongside the 4:26 single edit on the A-side.[60] The remix emphasized pulsating rhythms and layered percussion to enhance its club appeal, contributing to the single's commercial success as a number-one hit in both the UK and US.[12] Subsequent reissues incorporated additional remastered versions of the track as bonus content. In 2010, Parlophone Records released a remastered edition of Seven and the Ragged Tiger, featuring a 5:29 version of "The Reflex" with restored audio clarity, alongside the 2010 remaster of the Dance Mix at 6:36.[61] This deluxe edition also included bonus tracks such as live recordings and alternate mixes from the era, positioning the remixed "The Reflex" within a broader retrospective collection.[62] Further bonus material appeared in digital compilations, such as the 2024 The Reflex - EP on platforms like Apple Music, which bundles the original single version, the 2010 remaster, a live B-side cover of "Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me)," and the Dance Mix, offering fans expanded access to variant interpretations without new remixes.[63] No official additional remixes beyond the 1984 Dance Mix and 2010 remasters have been produced by the band or their label affiliates.

References

  1. Seven and the Ragged Tiger - Duran Duran
  2. The Reflex by Duran Duran - Songfacts
  3. THE REFLEX – DURAN DURAN - Official Charts
  4. Duran Duran - The Reflex (Official Music Video) - YouTube
  5. 30 Years Ago Today: Duran Duran's 'The Reflex' Hit No. 1 on the Hot ...
  6. Classic Tracks: Duran Duran 'The Reflex' - Sound On Sound
  7. Duran Duran Bassist John Taylor on Some of the Band's Most ...
  8. Interview: Duran Duran Bassist John Taylor Talks About Th...
  9. AIR Studios - Duran Duran Wiki - Fandom
  10. The Reflex - Duran Duran Wiki - Fandom
  11. Making Duran Duran: Seven And The Ragged Tiger
  12. "The Reflex" Re-Mix
  13. April 1984: Duran Duran Release THE REFLEX - Rhino
  14. On this day in 1984, Duran Duran's “The Reflex” was released. An ...
  15. Duran Duran - The Reflex | Story of Song
  16. Duran Duran's 'The Reflex' Hit No. 1 on the Hot 100/Billboard
  17. Duran Duran - The Reflex
  18. https://www.discogs.com/release/501919-Duran-Duran-The-Reflex
  19. Duran Duran - The Reflex
  20. The Reflex / Make Me Smile (Come Up And See Me) - Duran Duran
  21. Duran Duran - The Reflex (Dance Mix)
  22. Duran Duran - The Reflex
  23. Billboard Hot 100™
  24. Dance Club Songs - Billboard
  25. Displaying 1 for "The Reflex" - The Irish Charts
  26. Duran Duran - The Reflex
  27. Discographie Duran Duran - lescharts.com
  28. Duran Duran - Rock On The Net
  29. 2025 BPI Certifications - Page 18 - UK Charts - BuzzJack Music Forum
  30. DURAN DURAN songs and albums | full Official Chart history
  31. Duran Duran: The Reflex (Music Video 1984) - IMDb
  32. Director Russell Mulcahy and Duran Duran's John Taylor Look Back ...
  33. Duran Duran's John Taylor, Director Russell Mulcahy Look Back on ...
  34. 1984
  35. 1985 - Duran Duran
  36. DURAN DURAN - Live Aid (July 13th, 1985)
  37. Duran Duran, Snow Patrol Kick Off Olympic Concerts in Hyde Park
  38. Duran Duran and Nile Rodgers & Chic Concert Recap
  39. Tour Archive
  40. How Nile Rodgers' Help Vaulted Duran Duran's “The Reflex” to the ...
  41. Make It Big: The Story Of 1984 - Classic Pop Magazine
  42. 100 Best Singles of 1984: Pop's Greatest Year - Rolling Stone
  43. Duran Duran: 10 of the best - The Guardian
  44. Dance into the fire! Duran Duran's 20 greatest songs – ranked
  45. Duran Duran: Singles 80-85 Album Review - Pitchfork
  46. Rediscover Duran Duran's 'Notorious' (1986) | Tribute - Albumism
  47. Duran Duran – review - The Guardian
  48. Pop Classic #26: Duran Duran – The Reflex - God Is In The TV
  49. Duran Duran's "The Reflex": A Case Study in 80s Pop Perfection
  50. Covering the Hits: "The Reflex" (Duran Duran) - Cover Me
  51. Artists who covered The Reflex by Duran Duran - Guestpectacular
  52. Duran Duran's Iconic Hit 'The Reflex' and 80s Music Vibes
  53. American Wedding Soundtrack - SoundtrackINFO
  54. Better Call Saul Soundtrack - Tunefind
  55. Season 2 - Everybody Hates Chris Soundtrack - Tunefind
  56. The Reflex (Live Halloween Show at Co-op Live, Manchester 31/10 ...
  57. The Reflex "Europe 2025" Live in Roma "Circo Massimo" 15.06.2025
  58. The Reflex + Girls on Film / Psycho Killer - Paris - 21/10/2025
  59. The Reflex - a tribute to Duran Duran
  60. Duran Duran - The Reflex
  61. Duran Duran - The Reflex (The Dance Mix - Edited) / New Religion
  62. Duran Duran - The Reflex
  63. https://www.discogs.com/release/208808-Duran-Duran-The-Reflex-Dance-Mix
  64. Seven and the Ragged Tiger (Deluxe Edition) - Album by Duran Duran
  65. Seven and the Ragged Tiger Special Edition, 2CD & DVD
  66. ‎The Reflex - EP - Album by Duran Duran - Apple Music
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