Only Love: The Story Behind Ben Howard's Hit Single
In the landscape of early 2010s indie music, few tracks captured the atmospheric essence of modern folk as effectively as Only Love. Performed by English singer-songwriter Ben Howard, the song served as a cornerstone of his debut studio album, Every Kingdom. Blending traditional folk elements with indie and reggae influences, the track showcased Howard's unique sonic identity to a global audience.
Key Facts
- Artist: Ben Howard
- Album: Every Kingdom
- Release Date: 4 May 2012
- Genres: Folk, Indie Folk, and Reggae Folk
- Peak Chart Position: Number 9 (UK Singles Chart)
- Label: Island
Production and Composition
Written solely by Ben Howard, "Only Love" was recorded in 2011. The production was handled by Chris Bond and Darren Lawson, who helped shape the track's distinct sound. To complement the auditory experience, the single's cover art was meticulously designed by Owen Tozer.
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Musical Style and Genre
The song is categorized across several overlapping genres, primarily folk and indie folk. It also incorporates elements of reggae folk, a fusion that adds a rhythmic, laid-back quality to the traditional acoustic songwriting style.
Chart Performance and Commercial Success
Released in the United Kingdom on 4 May 2012, "Only Love" was made available as both a CD and a digital download. Its journey on the UK singles chart began modestly, entering at number 80. However, it quickly gained momentum, climbing to number 37 the following week.
The song's trajectory changed significantly following the 2013 Brit Awards. After Howard won two awards at the ceremony, a live performance of "Only Love" was released as a digital download single on 20 February 2013. This live version provided the necessary boost to propel the single to its peak position of number 9 on the charts.
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Songwriter | Ben Howard |
| Producers | Chris Bond, Darren Lawson |
| Length | 4:09 |
| Release Formats | Digital Download, CD |
| Chronology | Follows "The Wolves", precedes "Old Pine (Everything Everything Remix)" |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which album is "Only Love" from?
The song is featured on Ben Howard's debut studio album titled Every Kingdom, which was recorded in 2011.
Who produced the track?
The song was produced by Chris Bond and Darren Lawson.
What was the highest chart position for "Only Love"?
The single reached a peak position of number 9 on the UK singles chart, largely driven by the release of the live Brit Awards version.
What genres define the sound of "Only Love"?
The track is described as a blend of folk, indie folk, and reggae folk.
When was the song officially released as a single?
It was released in the United Kingdom on 4 May 2012.