Mr. Vain

Album: Serenity (1993)
Charted: 1 17
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • Culture Beat was the invention of German producer Torsten Fenslau, and it was speculated that he wrote this song about himself. As is common with Dance acts, the producer worked behind the scenes. Culture Beat was fronted by Tania Evans and rapper Jay Supreme.
  • This dance classic was the biggest hit in 1993 in Europe, topping the chart in 12 European countries including the UK.
  • Torsten Fenslau was killed in a car crash near Darmstadt in November 1993 at the age of 29. Culture Beat had continued success after his death, with the songs "Got To Get It" and "Anything" making the UK Top 5.
  • This was the first UK #1 hit that was not issued on 7 inch vinyl since the format was invented in the '50s (when the standard format was the very breakable 78 RPM disc). It was only available as a CD or cassette single, and it's success heralded the end of the 7-inch single. >>>
    Suggestion credit:
    Edward Pearce - Ashford, Kent, England, for all above

Comments: 1

  • Philip from LondonTania's astonishing vocal skills make this song, regardless of its meaning!
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Matthew Wilder - "Break My Stride"

Matthew Wilder - "Break My Stride"They're Playing My Song

Wilder's hit "Break My Stride" had an unlikely inspiration: a famous record mogul who rejected it.

Subversive Songs Used To Sell

Subversive Songs Used To SellSong Writing

Songs about drugs, revolution and greed that have been used in commercials for sneakers, jeans, fast food, cruises and cars.

Chris Squire of Yes

Chris Squire of YesSongwriter Interviews

One of the most dynamic bass player/songwriters of his time, Chris is the only member of Yes who has been with the band since they formed in 1968.

Janis Ian

Janis IanSongwriter Interviews

One of the first successful female singer-songwriters, Janis had her first hit in 1967 at age 15.

Billy Joe Shaver

Billy Joe ShaverSongwriter Interviews

The outlaw country icon talks about the spiritual element of his songwriting and his Bob Dylan mention.

Christmas Songs

Christmas SongsFact or Fiction

Rudolf, Bob Dylan and the Singing Dogs all show up in this Fact or Fiction for seasonal favorites.