Released in 1986 as the lead single from So, Peter Gabriel’s fifth studio album, Sledgehammer swiftly became his most commercially successful track, skyrocketing to the top of the charts and securing a No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100. Known for its infectious beat, layered production, and a memorable horn section that channeled classic soul and funk, Sledgehammer was a sonic departure from Gabriel’s darker, more introspective earlier work. The track was not only a commercial hit but also a pop culture phenomenon, with its music video pushing creative boundaries and establishing new standards for the music video industry.
For Gabriel, who had spent much of his career exploring complex themes and experimental sounds, Sledgehammer was a rare moment of mainstream appeal. It marked a point where he embraced accessible, high-energy production without sacrificing his inventive edge. The song’s success and lasting influence cement its place as a defining track in Gabriel’s discography, making it one of the most celebrated singles of the MTV era and an enduring classic in pop music history.
The Creative Inspiration Behind ‘Sledgehammer’
With Sledgehammer, Peter Gabriel tapped into a deep well of American soul and R&B influences that were rarely seen in his earlier, often avant-garde catalog. Inspired by the sounds of 1960s soul and funk, Gabriel sought to create a track that celebrated the groove-driven, high-energy style of music he loved from his youth. He was particularly influenced by the legendary Stax Records sound, epitomized by artists like Otis Redding, Wilson Pickett, and Sam & Dave. Gabriel wanted Sledgehammer to capture the same vitality, grit, and spontaneity that defined these records, allowing his vocal delivery and instrumentation to echo the raw passion of that era.
This stylistic shift marked a notable divergence from Gabriel’s previous work, which leaned heavily into experimental rock and introspective themes. Whereas earlier albums like Security and Melt showcased a darker, more enigmatic soundscape, Sledgehammer was unapologetically upbeat and accessible. Gabriel’s decision to embrace soul and funk allowed him to explore a new creative direction that emphasized rhythm, energy, and a playful swagger, all while staying true to his penchant for rich, layered production. The result was a track that paid homage to classic soul while blending it with his own distinctive, progressive style.
The Recording Process and Production
The recording of Sledgehammer was a collaborative effort between Peter Gabriel and producer Daniel Lanois, who helped craft the song’s rich, distinct sound. Known for his work with U2 and Brian Eno, Lanois brought a keen ear for atmospheric textures and layered arrangements, qualities that Gabriel harnessed to create a track as dynamic as it was polished. The production process balanced Gabriel’s newfound interest in soul with his desire for inventive soundscapes, resulting in a song that felt both classic and refreshingly modern.
A standout feature of Sledgehammer is its vibrant horn section, a defining element that was central to capturing the Stax-inspired vibe Gabriel wanted. The horns, performed by the Memphis Horns, inject the track with energy and a brassy punch, lending it the authenticity of a 1960s soul record. Additionally, Gabriel incorporated layered synthesizers and Fairlight CMI samplers, a state-of-the-art tool in the 1980s, to add dimension and subtle effects that gave the song a forward-looking edge. The driving bass line, played by renowned bassist Tony Levin, and Gabriel’s playful, rhythmic vocal delivery provided the groove that propelled the song’s upbeat character.
Unlike his previous projects, where Gabriel had often pursued abstract and experimental sound design, Sledgehammer was a deliberate exercise in creating something accessible and rhythm-focused. Gabriel’s approach in the studio was more streamlined and song-oriented, prioritizing immediacy over complexity. He emphasized live takes and collaborative input, capturing the spontaneity and warmth essential to the track’s appeal.
The Iconic Music Video
The music video for Sledgehammer is as legendary as the song itself, a groundbreaking piece of visual art that redefined what a music video could achieve. Directed by Stephen R. Johnson and brought to life by the innovative teams at Aardman Animations and The Brothers Quay, the video used stop-motion animation, claymation, and pixelation effects to create a surreal, endlessly engaging experience. From dancing raw chickens to Gabriel’s face morphing with countless objects, the video’s imagery was bold, whimsical, and unlike anything seen before, turning it into an instant sensation.
This visual masterpiece played a pivotal role in Sledgehammer’s success, cementing its place in pop culture and elevating Gabriel’s profile far beyond his previous niche. The video’s creative approach broke away from conventional music videos of the time, inspiring countless artists and directors to push the boundaries of the medium. In 1987, it won a record-setting nine MTV Video Music Awards, including Video of the Year, cementing its legacy as one of the most celebrated music videos in history.
Closing Thoughts
Decades after its release, Sledgehammer remains a timeless piece of pop music, celebrated both for its infectious sound and its boundary-pushing visuals. Musically, the song’s fusion of funk, soul, and Gabriel’s experimental style has kept it fresh and accessible to new generations of listeners. Its powerful horn section, catchy groove, and charismatic delivery showcase a classic appeal that doesn’t fade with time, making it a staple on playlists and in pop culture references alike.
Visually, Sledgehammer continues to inspire for its pioneering use of stop-motion and surreal imagery. The video’s creativity and technical mastery have left an indelible mark on the music industry, influencing artists and filmmakers for years. Even in today’s era of high-budget digital effects, the handmade, imaginative quality of Sledgehammer’s video remains both unique and highly respected.