Burning The Ground Exclusive 1985
NEW 2024 Transfer!
NEW Meticulous Audio Restoration!
Original post date: January 20, 2013
“Things Can Only Get Better” by Howard Jones is an iconic track that captures the upbeat, positive energy of the mid-80s synthpop era. Released in 1985 as the lead single from his second studio album, Dream Into Action, the song was an immediate hit, reaching #5 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. and #6 in the UK charts. Known for its infectious optimism, “Things Can Only Get Better” became an anthem of resilience and hope, qualities that resonated with fans worldwide.
The track showcases Jones’ skillful blend of synthesizers, upbeat rhythms, and introspective lyrics. Musically, it features a prominent bassline, funky guitar riffs, and a brass section that adds an extra layer of excitement to the track. The song’s melody is uplifting, with Jones’ dynamic vocals driving home the theme of perseverance. His lyrics focus on pushing through life’s challenges and remaining hopeful, with the refrain “Things can only get better” embodying the core message of positivity.
Jones, who had already made waves with hits like “New Song” and “What Is Love?”, continued to solidify his place in the 80s music scene with this release. Not only did Dream Into Action go on to become a commercial success, but the single also helped define his image as a thoughtful pop artist. Jones’s brand of synthpop was different in that he combined the new wave, electronic feel with introspective, almost philosophical lyrics—an approach that set him apart in a decade where flashy beats often took center stage.
“Things Can Only Get Better” has been widely regarded as a classic 80s anthem, even appearing in films, TV shows, and commercials over the years. Its infectious optimism still resonates today, and its message of hope continues to be a source of inspiration for listeners across generations.
SIDE A:
Things Can Only Get Better (LP Version) 4:05
What Is Love? (New Extended Version) 6:34
Lyrics By – Howard Jones, William Bryant (3)
Music By – Howard Jones
SIDE B:
Things Can Only Get Better (Extended Version) 7:26
New Song (New Version) 4:53
VINYL GRADE:
Vinyl: Near Mint
Sleeve: Near Mint
U.S. CHART HISTORY:
| Year | Single | Chart | Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1985 | Things Can Only Get Better | U.S. Billboard Hot 100 | #5 |
| 1985 | Things Can Only Get Better | U.S. Billboard Hot Adult Contemporary Tracks | #28 |
| 1985 | Things Can Only Get Better | U.S. Billboard Hot Dance/Club Play | #10 |
| 1985 | Things Can Only Get Better | U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles | #54 |
| 1985 | Things Can Only Get Better | U.S. Billboard Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks | #21 |
RELEASE INFORMATION:
Label: Elektra – 0-66915
Format: Vinyl, 12″, 33 ⅓ RPM, Stereo, Yellow Sleeve
Country: US
Released: 1985
Genre: Electronic
Style: Synth-pop
CREDITS:
- Producer – Rupert Hine
- Recorded By, Mixed By – Stephen W. Tayler
- Written-By – Howard Jones (tracks: A1, B1, B2)
NOTES:
Produced for Gestalt.
Mastered at Sterling.
Picture sleeve available in 3 other colors pink, white, and orange.
Printed in U.S.A.
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 download expired. Any chance you could fix that?
Due to space limitations on my website’s server, I’ve had to reduce how long I can keep files stored and available. I wish I could keep everything online forever, but unfortunately, that’s just not feasible.
Every now and then, I do re-release some of my older transfers, so I recommend subscribing to the site (if you haven’t already) to stay updated on new posts. Please note that 24-bit FLAC files are only available for seven days.
I recently picked up Shanice Wilson’s 1987 album Discovery, her of I Love Your Smile fame. The three singles off that album would be right up your alley.
Thank you very much Paul for this great rip! Howard Jones is one of my 80s favorite artists. “Like to get know you well” was the first track of his that made me search for his other tracks. The next 3 tracks I like d the most are the ones you posted! And this maxi-single is simply astonishing! Playing this tracks back in 1985 when I was DJing, still bring me memories of people coming to me to ask me about the singer. Howard Jones had obtained support slots by China Crisis and OMD. He was also influenced by the… Read more »
I saw Howard Jones on the Dream Into Action tour at the Arlington Theater in downtown Santa Barbara. Animotion opened for him and the concert was a glorious synth fest. This song harkens back to the era of Ronald Reagan and it’s fitting for you to post it today.
Stellar rip. Thanks for what you do.
“And do you feel scared?” – “I do. But I won’t stop and falter.” Nothing to add at this point.
Thx Paul, this is my absolute favorite from Howard Jones.
I had this 12″ in 1985 while I was DJing. Crowd went crazy when I played this track mixed with Baltimora Tarzan Boy. Years later I lost this 12″ and I searched it for years. That’s why I found BTG! I still play it today. Goosebumps every time I play this song….THX.
You’re very welcome 🙂
Thanks for this new transfer Paul!! This instantly takes me back to 1985. So upbeat and catchy! Howard Jones really had the look of the times and what a talent… A one man band! He was all over the radio and MTV at the time. Thanks again!!
You’re welcome, Retro Hound 🙂
I LOVE Howard Jones!!! I’ve seen him live a couple of times and highly recommend seeing him in concert!
I can’t believe he added new extended versions of his prior hits on this 12″! What a clever idea!
Even though I have just about everything by Howard Jones, I’m super excited to have this particular piece of vinyl in DjPaulT quality! THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!
You’re welcome, Martika 🙂
Thanks for this apt title, PaulT. The music can only help.
I wonder what Rod Serling would make of this pivotal decision in US / global history?
Thanks again, Paul, for the pick-me-up.
You’re welcome, Muff Diver 🙂
The first Howard Jones 12″ single I ever bought. I was not familiar with New Song or What Is Love? so I credit this single for making me a fan. The versions of those songs to me are the definitive versions. I’ve wondered if the opening riff of Things Can Only Get Better was in inspired by MFSB’s intro to “Dance With Me” perhaps Afrodesiac riffed off the idea with him… either way this is better, great single.
That would be an interesting question to ask HOJO if you ever got to converse with him.
Oh, such a well chosen title for this week…
Thank you 🙂
One of my favourite 12″ singles. 3 solid tracks on one vinyl release.
I have the orange sleeve, but always preferred this in yellow.
Thank you, Paul.
You’re welcome, Mark. I always wanted to find all three sleeves but always found the yellow one 🙂
Great post for this week!!! Thank you!!
You’re welcome, GAC. 🙂
3 Great songs on one disc! Thanks so much Paul!
You’re welcome, Johnny42 🙂
This is the perfect track that I needed to hear today, Paul!! Thank you for a hopeful, optimistic song for these times! I appreciate its message so much!!
Jeff
Jeff,
You’re very welcome! I’m so glad this track resonated with you today. It does have a hopeful vibe. It’s amazing how music can uplift and offer a bit of optimism when needed. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, and I’m happy I could help brighten your day!
Unfortunately, we live in era of anxiety, and FEAR triumphed over HOPE! I’m so incredibly disappointed with humanity! So, now I have to decide if I listen to this song on repeat for the next 4 years … or save it for 4 years from now! 🙂
Wonderful write up! Hojo has been a constant favorite since I first saw him on MTV with the sound and lyrics you so aptly describe singing “don’t crack up, bend your brain, see both sides, throw off your mental chains!” This track just kept giving more!
It always seemed to me at the time that British music was offering much more thoughtful lyrics than what was coming out of America!
Love it ! Thanks!
You’re welcome, ING 🙂