Meaning of “Woman In Chains” by Tears for Fears (ft. Oleta Adams)

This is a well-written song about a woman in an abusive romance, the participants of which are portrayed by the singers. The reason it is able to utilize such meaningful language is that there is an actual history and philosophy behind the track.

Inspired by something real

From a historical perspective, the writer and co-lead vocalist, Ron Orzabal’s, own parents were engaged in a toxic relationship, which served as inspiration for this track. So for instance, his mom was a stripper. This is important because not only do certain lyrics imply that the female is in such a position, but moreover the way she is portrayed in the music video is as a pole dancer.

Philosophical Foundation

However, the philosophical foundation of this track is more-complex. It is based on the teachings of renowned Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung (1875-1961). And the part of Jungian philosophy Orzabal is focusing on specifically – for lack of better wording – is toxic masculinity. Differently put, he feels that both men and women suffer in a society where machismo is espoused to the point of males suppressing their feminine side (i.e. patriarchies). So in actuality, some of the references to the “woman in chains” are not about the abused lady in the aforementioned romance but rather the man himself, as in he being unable to express his own feminine side. This becomes more-obvious during certain parts of the song, such as the second chorus. 

So overall, the logical implication would be that the reason he is actually abusive is due to his inability to relate to women. And both he and his partner have come to realize this.

Facts about “Woman in Chains”

• By special request of Tears for Fears, Phil Collins plays the drums on this track. According to Collins, it was one of the most-difficult songs he ever worked on.
• The music video to “Woman in Chains” stars Latina actress Angela Alvarado.
• Roland Orzabal is the sole writer of this song. However, the entire band produced it along with Dave Bascombe.
• The success of this track had a positive impact on the career trajectory of Oleta Adams, who was actually discovered by Tears for Fears in 1985.
• “Woman in Chains” initially came out on 25 September 1989 via Tears for Fears’ The Seed of Love. Later, on 6 November 1989, it was released by Fontana Records as single number 2 from that album. It was also re-released in 1992 as part of the band’s Tears Roll Down (Greatest Hits 82-92)”. Furthermore, it was released as a single, this time listing Oleta Adams’ as a feature. The label reportedly did that to capitalize on the solo success she was experiencing at that time.

Chart Performance of “Woman in Chains”

The song reached number 36 on the Billboard Hot 100 and 26 on the UK Singles Chart. The country where it charted the highest is Canada, where it peaked at number 11 on the RPM Top Singles.

Did “Woman in Chains” win a Grammy?

No. Interestingly enough, despite their massive success, Tears for Fears are yet to be honored with a Grammy.