Everything But The Girl - Each and Every One

“Each and Every One” — Everything But The Girl

Musical Style
“Each and Every One” is the debut single by British band Everything But The Girl, released in 1984. The song has a minimalist, jazzy sound, with clear influences from bossa nova. The combination of Tracey Thorn's calm but powerful vocals and Ben Watt's subtle guitar lines creates an intimate atmosphere. The production is simple, with soft percussion and a light acoustic arrangement, which fits the song's subdued nature.

Text and Theme
The text of “Each and Every One” is about the complexity of love and dealing with disappointment. It tells the story of someone who feels the pain of unrequited love but also finds the strength to move on. The words reflect a certain bitterness and frustration, but also the realization that everyone must ultimately take care of themselves in love. The song talks about emotional resilience and learning how to deal with loss in a relationship.

Success and Impact
The song achieved modest chart success, including a spot in the UK Top 40, and launched the career of Everything But The Girl. The band was especially praised for their unique blend of jazz, pop, and bossa nova, which set them apart from other bands in the '80s. This song put them on the map as one of the most sophisticated and introspective acts of their time.

Influence and Legacy
Although Everything But The Girl later became more famous with their dance-oriented hits such as “Missing” , remains “Each and Every One” a fan favorite for its delicate balance between emotion and simplicity. The song is typical of the band's early years, when their music was still heavily influenced by jazz and folk.