Mike Oldfield - Foreign Affair (lyrics) «2026»

The song remains a cult favorite among fans of 80s synth-pop and art rock. It gained a second life in the late 90s and early 2000s through various dance covers, most notably by and Maggie Reilly herself, who re-recorded it in a more contemporary style.

"Foreign Affair" is a standout track from Mike Oldfield's 1983 album, Crises . Known for its ethereal and hypnotic atmosphere, the song features the hauntingly beautiful vocals of Scottish singer , who also collaborated with Oldfield on his mega-hit "Moonlight Shadow." The Lyrical Theme: Escapism and Mystery Mike Oldfield - Foreign Affair (LYRICS)

: Rather than just a romantic liaison, the "foreign affair" represents a temporary escape into a state of tranquility and joy. The song remains a cult favorite among fans

The lyrics of "Foreign Affair" paint a vivid picture of a tropical getaway as a metaphor for seeking solace and freedom. It evokes a sense of "wishful emotion" and the allure of a "new territory" where one can start an "intimate story" away from the mundane. Known for its ethereal and hypnotic atmosphere, the

: Words like "lagoon," "tropical beach," and "island" create a dreamlike, cinematic landscape.

: The lyrics are repetitive and rhythmic, acting more like an instrument that blends into the lush electronic production rather than a traditional narrative. Musical Composition

The track is celebrated for its , a hallmark of Mike Oldfield's experimental style. The layering of keyboards and the steady, pulse-like rhythm create a "trance-like" effect that was quite ahead of its time, foreshadowing modern ambient and electronic dance music. Legacy and Covers

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Amber Sayer, MS, CPT, CNC

Senior Running Editor

Amber Sayer is a Fitness, Nutrition, and Wellness Writer and Editor, as well as a NASM-Certified Nutrition Coach and UESCA-certified running, endurance nutrition, and triathlon coach. She holds two Masters Degrees—one in Exercise Science and one in Prosthetics and Orthotics. As a Certified Personal Trainer and running coach for 12 years, Amber enjoys staying active and helping others do so as well. In her free time, she likes running, cycling, cooking, and tackling any type of puzzle.

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