This song needs absolutely no introduction. Whether you were around at the time of its release in 1983, or you were born after the millennium, the chances are you’ve heard it a million times before and, at some time or another, you’ve acquired your own copy.

When it comes to versions there’s really only one worth owning and listening to, and that’s the full-length version (7m 28s) which was the A-side on the original 12″ vinyl release (or the FLAC equivalent if you don’t have a turntable). Flip it over and on the B-side you’ll find a lengthy instrumental version, “The Beach” (7m 19s).

I suppose I’d better embed the song at this point so those who know it and/or own a copy can enjoy it for the one millionth and one’th time, and those who have been walking around since birth with their heads buried permanently in the sand can hear it for the first time…

So, why then, if everybody’s heard it and most likely own a copy themselves, am I talking about it on my blog? Well, that’s because a few years ago I discovered something on YouTube that literally blew my tiny little mind – And I’ve owned the original 12″ vinyl version since 1983.

Ever wondered what those seemingly random coloured blocks are down the right-hand edge of the sleeve? A young, naïve, 1980s me just bought the record, admired the song and the artwork and thought nothing more about it. It was just a really unique and cool-looking sleeve housing a really unique and cool sounding record. But there’s way more to it than just cool design and there was a massive clue in the video above if you watched it.

Now, at this point, I could waffle on for quite some time trying to explain everything but… (a) That would be pretty boring to read, (b) I’d probably not do it justice, and (c) I feel it only right that the person who introduced me to this amazing little nugget of music trivia, should also introduce it to you.

Time then for another video embed – Take it away @DistortThePreamp…

Maybe you’re already familiar with this fun Factory factoid, or maybe whilst watching the video you too had your tiny little mind blown. But either way, one thing is very much a certainty… Blue Monday is a timeless and truly unique song that will continue to transcend generations for decades to come.