“Sailing on the Seven Seas” is a synth-rock song by Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD), released in March 1991 with “Burning” on the B-side as the lead single from their album Sugar Tax. The song marked a successful comeback for OMD after the departure of founding members Paul Humphreys, Martin Cooper, and Malcolm Holmes, leaving Andy McCluskey as the sole remaining original member.
Sailing on the Seven Seas is somewhat abstract, with themes of longing, ambition, and perseverance. The phrase “Sailing on the seven seas” is often interpreted as a metaphor for navigating life’s challenges and emotions, though the lyrics remain open to interpretation.
The song blends synth-pop with rock elements, featuring a pounding beat, sharp electronic stabs, and McCluskey’s dramatic, commanding vocals. Unlike OMD’s earlier, more melancholic synth-driven hits (Enola Gay, If You Leave), this track has a heavier, more aggressive energy, driven by guitar riffs and a danceable rhythm. The thunderous drum sounds and anthemic chorus make it stand out in OMD’s discography.
The song was a commercial success, reaching No. 3 on the UK Singles Chart and performing well across Europe and Australia. It helped revive OMD’s popularity in the early 90s and proved that McCluskey could carry the band forward as a solo act.