“Missing” is a poignant and timeless track by British duo Everything But The Girl, consisting of Tracey Thorn and Ben Watt. Originally released in 1994 as part of their eighth studio album, Amplified Heart, the song was later remixed by American DJ Todd Terry in 1995, transforming it into a global dance anthem. The remix catapulted the song to international fame and became the duo’s most successful and iconic track.

Everything But The Girl - Missing - single cover

The lyrics of “Missing” reflect themes of heartbreak, longing, and emotional distance. Tracey Thorn’s evocative and understated delivery gives lines like “And I miss you, like the deserts miss the rain” a haunting quality that perfectly captures the ache of unfulfilled desire and loss. Musically, the original version of “Missing” is a gentle, acoustic-driven ballad with a subtle jazz influence. However, Todd Terry’s remix reimagined the track as a deep house and dance number, layering a pulsating beat, electronic textures, and a driving rhythm over Thorn’s emotional vocal performance. The remix maintained the song’s melancholic tone while adding a dynamic and infectious groove that broadened its appeal.

The song was a massive commercial success. The Todd Terry remix reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and topped the Dance Club Songs chart. It also achieved top 10 status in numerous countries, including the United Kingdom, where it peaked at No. 3, and became a club and radio staple around the world.

The music video, directed by Mark Szaszy, features Tracey Thorn performing the song in a dimly lit room, interspersed with moody, atmospheric shots of urban landscapes and desolate streets. The visuals complement the song’s themes of solitude and longing, enhancing its emotional impact.

Everything But The Girl – Missing – Lyrics