“Search for the Hero” is an uplifting and inspirational dance-pop song by M People, released in May 1995 as the third single from their album Bizarre Fruit. Known for its positive message and soulful delivery, the song became one of M People’s signature hits, celebrated for its empowering lyrics and anthemic quality. The song was written by band members Mike Pickering and Paul Heard, and produced by the band.
Search for the Hero is about self-discovery, resilience, and finding inner strength, encouraging personal growth and perseverance. The song’s universal and motivational theme has made it a popular choice for charity events, advertising campaigns, and moments of reflection.
Musically, the track blends soul, pop, and house music elements, featuring a steady beat, rich orchestration, and warm synths. Heather Small’s deep, expressive vocals give the song a powerful and emotional resonance, making it both soothing and inspiring.
The song was a commercial success, reaching No. 9 on the UK Singles Chart and number three on the UK R&B Singles Chart. In May 1996, almost a year after release “Search for the Hero” re-entered the airplay chart at number 33, partly due to its use in a Peugeot car advertisement, which helped boost its popularity.