Burning The Ground Exclusive
Heaven Is a Place on Earth – Belinda Carlisle’s Timeless Anthem
Released in 1987, “Heaven Is a Place on Earth” remains one of the defining songs of the decade. Performed by Belinda Carlisle, former lead singer of The Go-Go’s, the track catapulted her into solo superstardom and became an instant classic of the late ’80s pop-rock sound.
A Chart-Topping Smash
Written by hitmakers Rick Nowels and Ellen Shipley, “Heaven Is a Place on Earth” was the lead single from Carlisle’s second solo album, Heaven on Earth. The song quickly became a global phenomenon, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. and topping charts in several other countries, including the UK and Canada. It was Carlisle’s first (and only) U.S. No. 1 hit, solidifying her place in pop history.
The Sound of the Late ’80s
The song’s lush production, soaring melodies, and anthemic chorus perfectly encapsulate the era’s signature sound. Produced by Nowels, the track features a driving beat, shimmering synths, and a powerful vocal performance from Carlisle. Many of the era’s biggest names contributed to the track—background vocals were provided by Michelle Phillips of The Mamas & The Papas, Chynna Phillips of Wilson Phillips, songwriter Diane Warren, as well as songwriters Nowels and Shipley. The song also features Thomas Dolby on synthesizers.
An Iconic Music Video
Adding to the song’s legendary status is its striking music video, directed by actress-turned-filmmaker Diane Keaton. Featuring dreamlike imagery, shadowy dancers, and celestial themes, the video perfectly complements the song’s uplifting lyrics about love and paradise. Carlisle, dressed in black against a darkened, glowing background, delivers a mesmerizing performance, making the video one of the most recognizable of the decade.
Cultural Impact & Legacy
Beyond its chart success, Heaven Is a Place on Earth has endured as a staple of ’80s nostalgia. The song has been featured in countless movies, TV shows, and commercials, from Black Mirror to Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion. It’s also a favorite in karaoke bars and ‘80s dance nights worldwide. The song’s message—finding heaven in love and human connection—remains just as powerful today as it was in 1987.
The Twelve-Inch Remix
For fans of extended mixes, the song’s 12″ version is a must-listen. The official remix, crafted by Shep Pettibone, extends the song’s euphoric energy with an extended intro and an even more driving beat, making it a dancefloor favorite. It’s another perfect example of how the ’80s took pop hits and transformed them into club anthems.
A Song That Never Fades
More than three decades later, Heaven Is a Place on Earth continues to shine as one of the most beloved pop songs of its time. Whether you first heard it on the radio in 1987 or discovered it through a retro playlist, its magic remains undeniable.
SIDE A:
Heaven Is A Place On Earth (The Heavenly Version) 5:59
SIDE B:
Heaven Is A Place On Earth (Down To Earth Dub) 5:27
Heaven Is A Place On Earth (The Voice) 3:53
VINYL GRADE:
Vinyl: Near Mint
Sleeve: Near Mint
U.S. CHART HISTORY:
| Year | Single | Chart | Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1987 | Heaven Is A Place On Earth | U.S. Billboard Hot 100 | #1 |
| 1987 | Heaven Is A Place On Earth | U.S. Billboard Adult Contemporary | #7 |
RELEASE INFORMATION:
Label: MCA Records – MCA-23808, MCA Records – MCA 23808
Format: Vinyl, 12″, 33 ⅓ RPM
Country: US
Released: 1987
Genre: Electronic, Rock, Pop
Style: Synth-pop
CREDITS:
- Edited By – Tuta Aquino
- Edited By, Producer [Additional], Remix – Shep Pettibone
- Engineer [Remix] – Steve Peck
- Lacquer Cut By – TJ*
- Producer, Written-By – Rick Nowels
- Written-By – Ellen Shipley
NOTES:
From the MCA LP “HEAVEN ON EARTH”
Buy the 12″ at DISCOGS
VINYL TRANSFER & AUDIO RESTORATION:
-DjPaulT
burningtheground.net
THE GEAR:
Turntable: Technics SL-1200MK7
Cartridge/Stylus: Ortofon 2M Black PnP MkII
Turntable Isolation Platform: ISO-Tone™ Turntable Isolation Platform
Platter: Pro Spin Acrylic Mat
Stabilizer: Pro-Ject Record Puck
Phono Pre-amp: Pro-Jec Tube Box DS2
Tubes: Genalex Gold Lion 12AX7 ECC83/B759 Gold Pins Vacuum Tube – Matched Pair
DAC: Alpha Design Labs GT40a USB DAC
Record Cleaning: VPI HW 16.5 Record Cleaning Machine
Artwork Scans: Epson Workforce WF-7610 Professional Printer/Scanner
SOFTWARE:
Recording/Editing: Adobe Audition 25 (Recording)
Down Sampling/Dither: iZotope RX Advanced 2
Artwork Editor: Adobe Photoshop CS5
Click Removal: Manual
FLAC/MP3 Conversion: dBpoweramp
M3U Playlist: Playlist Creator
RESTORATION NOTES:
All vinyl rips are recorded @ 32bit/float
FLAC (Level Eight)
Artwork scanned at 600dpi
**24bit FLAC Only Available For Seven Days!
Password: burningtheground
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The Heavenly Mix has more of a synth pop feel to it. It lacks the guitar driving the chorus while it appears in other places. The drum rhythm is also more simple without the double kick but does retain the fills. As is the custom at times the dub follows more closely to the arrangement of the single mix with the guitar being more prominent. I didn’t know of The Voice nor all the background vocalists involved. Acappela hunters would have loved it! 🙂
thanks a lot Paul! <3
I wasn’t aware of these mixes by Shep until i got the Dance Masters 4CD Collection in 2021. They used the Heavenly Mix.
Great to have these mixes as released on the 12” and in your djpault quality.
Thanks Paul.
You’re welcome, Mark 🙂
I’m loving these deep dives into each record and its cultural impact. The video is certainly mesmerizing and kudos to Diane Keaton! The video really does justice to the music. The legacy of this song is truly testament to what I’ve said before: Boy were we spoiled back then! Just hearing one hit single after another hit the airwaves with such vitality, freshness, sparkling production… This was the level of pop music we expected, and this single in particular really set the bar high. I recall my classmates dancing in the hallways to this. What a time. Thank you so… Read more »
Btw these Shep Pettibone mixes are totally new to me. Truly heaven on earth!
You’re so welcome! I couldn’t agree more—those were truly special times for music. The sheer quality and creativity of pop back then set such a high bar, and it’s amazing to look back and see how these songs still resonate today. I love that you have such a vivid memory of your classmates dancing in the hallways—what a perfect snapshot of the era! And yes, Diane Keaton’s direction really elevated the video, making it just as unforgettable as the song itself. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts and for appreciating these deep dives!
Thank you Paul!
Retro Hound,
This is such a great memory! I love this. Sort of like the movie and television show, “Fame”, with the dancing students in the halls. I also appreciate you appreciating pop and dance music. I know you love Rock in particular, but you still can get into so much other forms of music. PLUS!! You’re just one of the nicest people here commenting on Paul’s work. It’s a real pleasure getting to know you through your comments and passions. You absolutely, ROCK!!!
Jeff
Thanks Jeff, you got me grinning ear to ear!! You’re too kind! I can tell not only are you an 80’s music enthusiast, but how much the music shaped your life. Like me. You are really special Jeff, this community wouldn’t be the same without you! It puts a smile on my face knowing you are Paul’s number one fan!! I’d like to think I’m not too far behind. Have a great night!!
I really like that you are on task with these Pettibone remixes. Beyond the performer, it highlights the production and sound that was such a part of the 80’s musical landscape. At the time I was not really a big fan of his mixes, being more into the Hague or Kevorkian mixes, but revisiting them over the years I find Pettibone a lot more fun now, the over the top production is so quintessentially over the top 80’s and for me now, I appreciate them on a different level now, even knowing the context of his work. Here as you… Read more »
Joey, Thanks so much! I really appreciate your perspective on Pettibone’s work. His remixes were definitely a defining part of the ’80s sound—big, bold, and unapologetically over the top. I totally get preferring The Hague or Kevorkian mixes back in the day, but it’s great how time gives us a new appreciation for different styles. That’s exactly why I love sharing these—it’s a chance to revisit and savor them in a fresh way. Glad you’re enjoying the journey!
I’m loving your Pettibone streak so far! Glad to finally have this masterpiece in DjPaulT quality! THANK YOU!!!! This song never goes out of style. I was lucky to see her live, solo and as the Go-Gos at Epcot 🙂 The benefit of seeing them at Epcot is that I was only a few feet away from her. She’s even more magnificent in person!
Also, thanks for sharing all the other info about Diane Keaton and the background singers! I had no idea!
My pleasure, Martika. You are very lucky to see her live in both contexts. I am sure those were amazing shows. 🙂
Aaah Belinda !
Amazing character and…uptempo beats!
Tx a million!
You’re welcome, Robert 🙂
So true. Your write up is absolutely 💯 on point. Well done well said. I’m singing along in my brain even as I type. Loved her from the moment The Go-Go’s hit the airwaves- radio and MTV- and this track is timeless to me.
Thanks
You’re welcome, ING 🙂
Thanks, Paul! Shep did a great (and classy) job on this 12″! My favorite bit is on the acappella at 0:16 to about 0:22 with the echo fade out. Something about this simple effect just rocks on this particular acappella. Thanks again and have a great day!
You’re welcome, Fred. I really love the “dub”. 🙂
Thank you profoundly, Paul, for this 12-inch!! It really stood out at the time and still does. Great that Shep, Tuta Aquino, and Steve Peck were involved in the project, too. I love the care you take with these sonic flashbacks. It’s like hearing them like you’re supposed to.
This is already shaping up to be an exquisite week for us. Mr. Pettibone is a star!!
Burning The Ground is Heaven in Cyberspace!!
Jeff
You’re very welcome, Jeff 🙂