When the Going Gets Tough: A Cab Driver's Anthem?

Every professional driver in the UK knows the feeling: the endless hours, the unpredictable traffic, the constant need for vigilance and a steady hand. It's a job that demands a certain level of grit, a refusal to be beaten by the unexpected. And sometimes, when the roads are long and the night is drawing in, a particular song comes on the radio that just seems to encapsulate that spirit perfectly. For many, that song is Billy Ocean's iconic 1985 hit, 'When the Going Gets Tough, the Tough Get Going.'

More than just a catchy tune, this track has become an unofficial anthem for those who navigate the urban jungle and beyond. Its message of resilience, of pushing through adversity, resonates deeply with the daily challenges faced by taxi drivers across the nation. But while the song's powerful lyrics and uplifting beat are well-known, the story behind its famous music video is a captivating tale of Hollywood stars, a peculiar ban, and a moment of pure 80s magic that might just surprise even the most seasoned cabbie.

The Unsung Anthem of the Open Road: Why It Resonates

Consider the life of a taxi driver. It's not just about getting from A to B; it's about navigating tight schedules, dealing with diverse passengers, adapting to sudden road closures, and often, working unsociable hours. The 'going' truly does get 'tough' on a regular basis, whether it's a late-night fare through a storm or simply enduring the peak-hour gridlock. The phrase 'the tough get going' isn't just a catchy line; it's a mantra for perseverance, a reminder that quitting isn't an option when you're responsible for getting someone safely to their destination.

Billy Ocean, with his smooth vocals and undeniable energy, delivered a song that perfectly bottled this sentiment. The driving rhythm, the empowering lyrics – it's the kind of track that can lift spirits on a dreary Tuesday afternoon or provide a burst of motivation during a long overnight shift. It’s a track that frequently pops up on classic hits radio stations, making it a familiar companion for many in the trade. But it's the visual accompaniment to this classic that holds a truly fascinating secret, one that ties some of Hollywood's biggest names into an unexpected cameo.

Billy Ocean and the Unexpected Hollywood Cameos

For those of us who grew up with the vibrant, often quirky, music videos of the 1980s, re-watching them can be a nostalgic trip. And sometimes, you spot something you never noticed before. Take 'When the Going Gets Tough, the Tough Get Going.' Around 19 seconds into the official music video, two backing singers appear, their backs to the camera, dancing in unison in matching white suits. They're energetic, they're in sync, but there's nothing immediately to suggest they're anything more than professional dancers.

Fast forward to 46 seconds, and these two figures have picked up their pace, stepping left and right with renewed vigour. Then, at 1 minute and 3 seconds, a third female backing singer is revealed, also impeccably dressed in the same smart suit. The trio begins to feature more prominently, their moves becoming more distinct. And then, at 1 minute and 11 seconds, the big reveal: the faces of these 'backing singers' are none other than Hollywood megastars Kathleen Turner, Danny DeVito, and Michael Douglas!

This trio, now globally recognised, were at the height of their fame, particularly known for their roles in the 1984 blockbuster adventure-comedy 'Romancing the Stone.' In that film, Michael Douglas played the rugged adventurer Jack T. Colton, who helps Kathleen Turner's character, American writer Joan Wilder, navigate the treacherous Colombian rainforest. Danny DeVito played Ralph, a bumbling antiquities smuggler who holds Joan’s sister hostage in a bid to acquire a treasure map. The chemistry between these three was undeniable, leading to immediate success.

The reason for their appearance in Billy Ocean’s video lies with the sequel to 'Romancing the Stone.' The song 'When the Going Gets Tough, the Tough Get Going' was specifically written for the soundtrack of the 1985 follow-up film, 'The Jewel of the Nile.' While it wasn't the main theme, it featured prominently during the film itself and played over the end credits. Billy Ocean himself has stated that this video was his all-time 'favourite' in his career, and it's easy to see why. The sight of Danny DeVito earnestly playing a saxophone solo (or at least pretending to!) and Michael Douglas's determined fist-pumping is pure visual gold and a testament to the fun and camaraderie evident on set.

A Chart Topper, a UK Ban, and the Musician's Union

The song itself was a monumental success. It soared to number one on the UK Singles Chart, holding the top spot for an impressive four weeks in February 1986. Across the pond, it reached number two on the US Billboard Hot 100 singles chart, cementing its status as a global hit. Its popularity was undeniable, its catchy rhythm infectious, and its message universally appealing. However, despite its chart-topping success, the original music video faced a significant hurdle in its home territory: it was banned in the UK!

The reason for this seemingly bizarre ban dates back to 1985 and the strict rules of the Musician's Union in the UK. At the time, it was a requirement that anyone appearing in a music video had to be a member of this union. Michael Douglas, Kathleen Turner, and Danny DeVito, being Hollywood actors and not professional musicians, were not members. By appearing in the video, they inadvertently broke the union's rules, leading to the video being deemed ineligible for broadcast. This meant that the official version of the video, with its now-famous celebrity cameos, couldn't be shown on popular UK music television programmes like the iconic 'Top of the Pops.' It was a peculiar situation, highlighting the unique regulations of the era and the power of trade unions in the entertainment industry.

This ban meant that many UK viewers, particularly those who weren't actively seeking out the video through other means, missed out on the delightful cameos for years. It's a fascinating piece of trivia, often sparking surprise when mentioned in conversation, perhaps even during a quiet moment between fares.

The Impact of the Ban

The ban wasn't just a minor inconvenience; it meant that a significant part of the song's promotional material was withheld from its biggest market. For a song that hit number one, the lack of its official video on mainstream television was a notable absence. It forced the creation of alternative promotional clips, and perhaps even contributed to the mystique around the original video, making its eventual discovery by viewers even more exciting in later years. It’s a vivid example of how industrial regulations can intersect with popular culture, creating unexpected historical footnotes.

Why This Tune Endures in Our Cabs

Beyond the fascinating backstory of its music video, 'When the Going Gets Tough, the Tough Get Going' continues to be a staple on UK radio waves, and undoubtedly, in many a taxi driver's personal playlist. Its enduring appeal lies in several factors:

• Timeless Message: The theme of perseverance and resilience is universal and never goes out of style. For professional drivers, it's a daily reality.
• Catchy Melody: Billy Ocean's powerful vocals and the song's infectious beat make it impossible not to tap your foot or hum along. It's a mood-lifter.
• Nostalgia: For many, it evokes fond memories of the 1980s – a vibrant era in music and film. Hearing it can transport you back to simpler times, perhaps even to your early days in the trade.
• Relatability: The lyrics speak to the determination required to face challenges head-on, a sentiment familiar to anyone who's ever had to push through a tough shift.

It's the kind of song that can cut through the monotony of a long drive, offering a burst of energy and a reminder of the inner strength required to keep the wheels turning. It's a testament to the power of music to connect with our experiences, even in the most unexpected ways.

The Legacy Beyond the Wheel: The Movie That Almost Was

The story of 'When the Going Gets Tough' is also intertwined with the 'Romancing the Stone' franchise, which, according to various rumours, almost had a third instalment. Wikipedia, for instance, mentioned a proposed film titled 'The Crimson Eagle,' which would have seen Jack Colton and Joan Wilder (Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner's characters) taking their two teenage children to Thailand, where they become embroiled in a plot involving a priceless stolen statue. Another rumour from 2008 suggested Michael Douglas was working on a second sequel, tentatively titled 'Racing the Monsoon,' after reportedly giving up on the 'Crimson Eagle' idea in 1997. While nothing definitive has ever materialised, these whispers add another layer of intriguing 'what if' to the legacy of the song and the talented actors who graced its video. It's the kind of trivia that might spark an interesting conversation with a passenger, or a moment of reflection during a quiet break.

Michael Douglas: Beyond the Music Video

Speaking of Michael Douglas, his connection to Hollywood runs deep. A fascinating piece of trivia reveals his pivotal role in one of cinema's greatest films. Michael Douglas was given the rights to the novel 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest' by his famous father, Kirk Douglas. Michael went on to produce the film adaptation, starring Jack Nicholson, and ultimately picked up an Oscar himself for Best Picture as the producer of the movie. This highlights the incredible talent and influence of the stars who made such an unexpected and memorable appearance in Billy Ocean's video.

Frequently Asked Questions for the Curious Passenger/Driver

Whether you're a driver keen to know more about the tunes on your radio or a passenger wondering about the stories behind the songs, here are some common questions about 'When the Going Gets Tough, the Tough Get Going':

Who sings 'When the Going Gets Tough, the Tough Get Going'?

The song is famously sung by the British recording artist Billy Ocean. His distinctive smooth vocals and energetic delivery made it a massive hit worldwide.

Which Hollywood actors are in the 'When the Going Gets Tough' music video?

The music video features surprise cameo appearances from Hollywood stars Kathleen Turner, Danny DeVito, and Michael Douglas. They are seen dancing as backing singers.

Why was the 'When the Going Gets Tough' music video banned in the UK?

The music video was banned in the UK because the actors (Kathleen Turner, Danny DeVito, and Michael Douglas) were not members of the UK Musician's Union at the time. Union rules stipulated that anyone appearing in a music video had to be a member, leading to its prohibition from broadcast on UK television.

What film is 'When the Going Gets Tough' from?

The song was written specifically for the soundtrack of the 1985 adventure-comedy film 'The Jewel of the Nile,' which was the sequel to 'Romancing the Stone.'

How successful was the song 'When the Going Gets Tough, the Tough Get Going'?

The song was a huge commercial success. It reached number one on the UK Singles Chart, holding the top spot for four weeks in February 1986. It also peaked at number two on the US Billboard Hot 100 singles chart.

Did the actors actually sing in the music video?

No, the actors Kathleen Turner, Danny DeVito, and Michael Douglas were primarily featured for their dance moves and comedic presence. Billy Ocean was the lead vocalist on the track.

The Enduring Rhythm of the Road

So, the next time 'When the Going Gets Tough, the Tough Get Going' blares from your cab's radio, take a moment to appreciate not just its infectious beat and empowering message, but also the rich, surprising history behind its iconic music video. It's a classic tune that speaks to the spirit of perseverance, a quality every taxi driver knows intimately. It’s a reminder that even when the journey is long and the challenges are many, the tough keep going, just like the wheels of your cab, carrying you and your passengers safely through the bustling streets of the UK.

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