Babylon

“Babylon” is the second single from British singer-songwriter David Gray and his fourth studio album “White Ladder”, released in July 1999. The track was re-released in June 2000. “Babylon” was written by Gray, with production done by Gray, Iestyn Polson and Craig McClune.

“Babylon” is a folk and electronic song that discusses heartbreak and the endless thinking that comes after a breakup with a lover or partner, and encourages listeners to “let go of your heart, let go of your head”. The song became a hit in the late 90’s and early 2000’s, defining a generation.

The music video was released in 2000 and was directed by Kieran Evans. Uploaded to David Gray’s YouTube channel in July 2013, the video shows the general public in London going about their daily lives, waiting for trains, walking and meeting friends, interloped with videos of Gray singing with a guitar. As of mid-September 2020, the video has 10.8 million views and 39 thousand likes.

Release Date: 12th July 1999

Songwriter: David Gray

Producer/s: David Gray, Iestyn Polson & Craig McClune

Label/s: IHT & EastWest

Music Video Release Date: 2000

Music Video Director: Kieran Evans

Chart Rankings & Certifications: In its year of release, “Babylon” charted at #51 in Australia, #96 in Germany, #31 in Ireland and New Zealand, #81 in the Netherlands, #31 in Poland, #4 in Scotland, #5 in the UK, #57 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, #1 on the US Billboard Adult Alternative Songs chart; #26 on the US Billboard Adult Contemporary chart; #8 on the US Billboard Adult Top 40 chart; #35 on the US Billboard Alternative Airplay chart and #36 on the US Billboard Mainstream Top 40 chart. “Babylon” is certified Gold in the UK.

The lyrics to “Babylon” can be read here: LINK