This is the 33rd entry in my occasional series of 12″ records from the 80s that had a significant impact on my life.

The song in question is none other than “Papa’s Got a Brand New Pigbag,” written by Chris Hamlin and James Johnstone before they formed the band Pigbag. It was produced by Dave Hunt and Dick O’Dell and released in the UK in 1981.

Despite its original lack of commercial success, the song quickly gained popularity after it reached the top 50 in the US. This prompted a re-release of the song in the UK in 1982, where it climbed to number 3 on the charts.

The song’s infectious rhythm and catchy brass hook have made it a fixture in pop culture and a favourite of music lovers everywhere. In fact, it has been covered by numerous bands, including a version by Paul Oakenfold, which was retitled “Reach Up (Papa’s Got a Brand New Pigbag).”

However, as a long-time fan of the original, I believe that no remix version can compare to the original. The song’s driving beat and joyful energy continue to inspire and move me every time I hear it. It’s no wonder that this song has become a classic and a beloved favourite of so many music fans around the world.

Frequently referenced in pop culture, it has been covered by several bands, including a Paul Oakenfold version, renamed to “Reach Up (Papa’s Got a Brand New Pigbag)”.

The original is still the best in my eyes.