The Promise
When In Rome
from the album When In Rome
1988

I've been reluctant to feature "The Promise" here at the Early '80s Song of the Week site, but not because it is a late 80s track by a band that made their debut in 1988. Rather, I have been sitting on this song in the hopes of digging up some information on the band, When In Rome.

What I do know: Clive Farrington, Andrew Mann and Michael Floreale of When In Rome were part of an earlier Manchester outfit, Leisure. Leisure featured Corinne Drewery, who would go on to front Swing Out Sister. After Swing Out Sister had enjoyed their ten minutes of fame with the single "Break Out," When In Rome stepped up to join the ranks fo one-hit-wonders. Their 1988 single "The Promise" was by far their biggest commercial success, and the popularity and staying power of the song is evidenced by the fact that it has been the most requested song at this site. They released just the one album, and promptly faded into obscurity.

If you have any further information as to the origins and fate of When In Rome please write, and this page will be updated accordingly.

I am legally obligated not to send anyone copies of When In Rome's music. If you can't find the music you want locally, CDNow is a reliable and affordable source.

The Promise
C. Farrington/M. Floreale/A. Mann
This sound file is available (300k mpeg audio file)

When you need a friend, don't look to a stranger,
You know in the end, I'll always be there.
But when you're in doubt, and when you're in danger,
Take a look all around, and I'll be there.

I'm sorry, but I'm just thinking of the right words to say.
I know they don't sound the way I planned them to be.
But if you'll wait around awhile, I'll make you fall for me,
I promise you, I promise you I will.

When your day is through, and so is your temper,
You know what to do, I'm gonna always be there.
Sometimes if I shout, it's not what's intended.
These words just come out, with no gripe to bear.

I'm sorry, but I'm just thinking of the right words to say.
I know they don't sound the way I planned them to be.
But if you'll wait around awhile, I'll make you fall for me,
I promise you, I promise you...

I'm sorry, but I'm just thinking of the right words to say.
I know they don't sound the way I planned them to be.
And if I had to walk the world, I'd make you fall for me,
I promise you, I promise you I will.

I gotta tell you, I gotta tell you, I need to tell you...

I'm sorry, but I'm just thinking of the right words to say.
I know they don't sound the way I planned them to be.
But if you'll wait around awhile, I'll make you fall for me,
I promise you, I promise you...

I'm sorry, but I'm just thinking of the right words to say.
I know they don't sound the way I planned them to be.
And if I had to walk the world, I'd make you fall for me,
I promise you, I promise you I will.
I will.
I will.

See our list of Early '80s Songs.