Burning The Ground Exclusive
In the mid-90s, when Eurodance and pop covers were dominating the charts, an unexpected revival of a 70s classic found its way back onto dance floors—this time with a glossy, Hi-NRG sheen.
British singer and former firefighter William Newton Myers—better known as Newton—stepped into the spotlight in 1994 with his debut single, a remake of Sky High, originally recorded by Jigsaw in 1975.
Produced by the hitmaking team of Mike Stock and Matt Aitken—best known for their work as part of the Stock Aitken Waterman empire—this 90s version of “Sky High” trades the original’s orchestral drama for a bright, synth-driven dance arrangement tailor-made for clubs and radio alike.
Interestingly, what began as a one-off studio project had deeper ties to the original than most covers. The track actually features vocals by Des Dyer, the original voice behind the 1975 hit. He even appears in the music video, bridging the gap between eras. Following the single’s success, Myers himself was brought forward as the face—and voice—of the project, giving it a consistent identity moving forward.
And success it was. “Sky High” climbed to No. 8 in Australia in April 1995, earning a gold certification and proving that a well-produced cover could still capture the public’s imagination nearly two decades after the original’s release.
Newton would go on to build a career largely centered around reimagining familiar songs for a new generation, finding particular success in markets like Australia, the UK, and Brazil. His polished vocal style and accessible dance productions made him a reliable presence in 90s pop.
In 1998, he released his debut album, Sweetest Secret, further cementing his place in the era’s pop landscape.
While purists may always favor the original, Newton’s “Sky High” stands as a perfect example of 90s nostalgia done right—respectful of its source, yet updated with enough energy and style to feel fresh all over again. For many club-goers of the time, this was their version—and it still soars.
SIDE A:
Sky High (Radio Edit) 3:58
Engineer [Mix Engineer] – Peter Day
Mixed By – Seth & Jess Thethub
Written-By – C. Scott, D. Dyer
Sky High (Hiza Kite Mix) 6:48
Mixed By – Mobius Loop
Written-By – C. Scott, D. Dyer
SIDE B:
Sky High (Kaiser Height Mix) 6:28
Mixed By – The Red Baron
Written-By – C. Scott, D. Dyer
Up, Down Round & Round 3:51
Mixed By – Neon (15)
Written-By – J. Gingell, M. Stock, M. Aitken
VINYL GRADE:
Vinyl: Near Mint
Sleeve: Near Mint
| Chart | Peak Position | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Australia (Kent Report) | #8 | 1994 |
| UK Singles | #56 | 1994 |
RELEASE INFORMATION:
Label: Critique – 01624 15536-1
Format: Vinyl, 12″, 33 ⅓ RPM
Country: US
Released: 1994
Genre: Electronic
Style: Euro House
CREDITS:
- Engineer – Peter Day
- Engineer [Assisted By] – Dean Murphy
- Musician – J. Gingell*, M. Stock, M. Aitken*
- Producer [Uncredited] – Stock/Aitken
NOTES:
The label mistakenly credits Peter Day as the producer, but the correct producer and Peter Day’s actual role are listed above.
Buy the 12″ at DISCOGS
VINYL TRANSFER & AUDIO RESTORATION:
-DjPaulT
for BURNING THE GROUND
THE GEAR:
Turntable: Technics SL-1200MK7
Cartridge/Stylus: Ortofon Concorde Music Black
Phono Pre-amp: Pro-Jec Tube Box DS2
Tubes: Genalex Gold Lion 12AX7 ECC83/B759 Gold Pins Vacuum Tube – Matched Pair
Audio Interface: MOTU M4
Turntable Isolation Platform: ISO-Tone™ Turntable Isolation Platform
Platter: Pro Spin Acrylic Mat
Stabilizer: Pro-Ject Record Puck
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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I never knew this existed. I have a copy of Newton’s cover of Dan Hill’s 1977 hit ‘Sometimes When We Touch’, which is another fantastic HiNRG rework. I love this too!
Thanks Paul for introducing me to this track
This was a real high energy cover! The 70’s original is so amazing, such a great track. Newton really made this a 90’s song when he updated it, it really has the sound of the era. I never really heard much from Newton again but this really made its mark.
I actually first heard this via the music video, whole thing is a lot of fun.
These remixes are great Paul, thanks so much!
You know, Paul…IKNOW THIS!! At the time of first hearing it, I just thought it was a remix of the 70’s original tune by Jigsaw! I’ve loved the song so much but couldn’t find the song for years. Well, thanks to you and the mystery is solved! What a great record it is! I love it and it’s the perfect song to blare out the car!!
You’re a revelation, Paul! I am in love!!
Jeff
Jeff, This is exactly the kind of story I love hearing. You’re not alone either—a lot of people thought this was just a 90s remix of the original when it first hit. It really does blur that line so well, especially with Des Dyer involved. And I totally get what you mean about not being able to track it down—pre-internet (or early internet) music hunting could feel like chasing ghosts. Makes finally finding it that much sweeter though, right? Also… you nailed it—this one was made to be blasted in the car. Windows down, volume up, no apologies. Really appreciate… Read more »
like this but prefer the 89 PWL remix of jigsaw- skyhigh . sorry hahhah
I always loved the original…and I remember this cover well…it was a great cover especially including the original singer! Sadly it didn’t become a smash hit that I wanted it to be. I seriously think it was the cover art being so blah. Thanks for the great post, Paul!!
Fred, I’m right there with you—the original has such a timeless energy, and this version really respects that while giving it a 90s lift. Bringing Des Dyer back was a brilliant move—it adds authenticity you rarely get with covers. And you might be onto something with the artwork. In that era, a strong sleeve could absolutely make a difference, especially in the bins or behind the counter where something eye-catching could pull you in. This one definitely didn’t scream “pick me!” the way some others did. It’s a shame it didn’t go further on the charts, because musically it ticks… Read more »
Now I don’t remember this… or the original! Maybe it’s oldtimers disease… won’t know for sure without listening!!!
Intrigued….
I hope you like it, ING.