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The Fixx — Saved By Zero
Album: Ultimate Collection
Avg rating:
6.8

Your rating:
Total ratings: 1277









Released: 1984
Length: 3:27
Plays (last 30 days): 0
Maybe someday
Saved by zero
I'll be more together
Stretched by fewer
Thoughts that leave me
Chasing after
My dreams disown me
Loaded with danger

So, maybe I'll win (saved by zero)
Maybe I'll win (saved by zero)

Holding on to
Words that teach me
I will conquer
Space around me

So, maybe I'll win (saved by zero)
Maybe I'll win (saved by zero)
Maybe I'll win (saved by zero)
Maybe I'll win (saved by zero)

So, maybe I'll win (saved by zero)
Maybe I'll win (saved by zero)
Maybe I'll win (saved by zero)
Who needs to win (saved by zero)

Saved by zero
Comments (144)add comment
zero. great name for a dog.
 waterwench21 wrote:

If you weren't there you can't know, no judgement..... but underneath all that, fuck you and the horse you rode in on....



Is this directed at everyone or just someone in particular?  If someone in particular please post it with the comment that seems to have twisted your undergarment. 

If to everyone who was "not there" I, who was there for the 60's, 70's, 80's and still around now do not appreciate your vulgarity. Is this the way you speak to others in everyday life?  
If you weren't there you can't know, no judgement..... but underneath all that, fuck you and the horse you rode in on....
 horstman wrote:
bigtwistee wrote: I've heard so much dribble about how the 80s sucked on these boards. Give it a rest!! The 80s gave us R.E.M., U2, Smiths, Depeche Mode, The Cure, Echo and the Bunnyman, The Stone Roses, etc. etc. How many of these bands were played constantly on the Radio? Few, if any and certainly not Echo or the Stone Roses. What's the point here, folks. That until the advent and proliferation of the internet, we were all spawn fed music by radio stations which always played to the commercial interests of its viewing, buying audience. The same crap is played in the 90s, and the current decade. And there is still really good music generated during these periods to please the discerning listener (like you and me-well, me at least!). So before you derade the entire decade on representations like Flock of Seagulls, Wham, or Duran Duran, remember all of the excellent artists and styles that evolved during that period. Also remember that rock and roll does evolve. Music is getting better and better. And todays artists cut their teeth on the music they grew up with, most of which occured during the 70s and 80s.

Great comment! The song Sound of Muzak of Porcupine Tree came into my mind when I read it. 
 Coinspinner wrote:


They played my town recently in a small venue, I didn't go and now I hate myself.



Well, I hate you too!   ....Just kidding!   LOL!   
Come on: it should be a 7 on average, right?
 Grammarcop wrote:

This song is about Europe being in the middle of an escalating nuclear arms race between the U.S. and the USSR. "Saved by zero" refers to a nuke-free European continent. The policy proposal was known at the time as the Zero Option. 

I hope you still like it!

Not necessarily. 
According to Wikipedia:
“…

"Saved by Zero" is a reference to the Buddhist mantra Śūnyatā. Fixx lead vocalist Cy Curnin reflected on its meaning in a 2008 interview:

"It was about looking at your own life, not so much about amassing material things but about experiences that lend you to be blissful... The song was written from the point of view of the release you get when you have nothing left to lose. It’s sort of a meditation. It clears your head of all fears and panics and illusions and you get back to the basics, which is a Buddhist mantra, which I practiced back then, and which I still do. The idea of the song is how great it is to get back to zero."

This rings truer to me than does a nuclear commentary.

either way, this was one of the first songs that made it to my IPod. It still has legs (the SONG….NOT my long-lame & dead iPod). :-)
I miss that 1982 era of new wave, as it was darker and had a more gritty, space age sound.  The Fixx, Flock Of Seagulls, Planet P Project, early Berlin, Gary Numan (ignore "Cars"), etc.  By 1984 it had gotten all commercialized and was full of phony "happy happy" vibes.
 
I'd like to see BillG explore that darker new wave space a little more, as it lies in that gray area between the "deep cuts" prog rock 70s sound and the sound of today.
 
 Alastair wrote:

In the UK at least, a massively under-rated band.   



They played my town recently in a small venue, I didn't go and now I hate myself.
 UliB wrote:

I heard this song once around 1979 in the Frankfurt, Germany Zweitausendeins record shop and at a once fell into love to the sound of this band - just bought the LP and still listen to it from time to time. btw - don't have any more the decent light grey suit and gown, for my first job interviews, I intentionally was looking after that day - but the LP still is here :-)




Sound "Tüftler" (you will understand the german word, for all others: its kind of "Nerd" or similar) Rupert Hine. "Thinkman" is another band with similar sound. But it isn't possible you heard it already in 1979, the record was released 1983 ... I had it first on a cassette, now as CD.
In the UK at least, a massively under-rated band.   
Overplayed on the radio when it came out, but, still an excellent tune! Even better in FLAC w/ great studio phones, amp & DAC! Thank You RP! 
I love this…
I heard this song once around 1979 in the Frankfurt, Germany Zweitausendeins record shop and at a once fell into love to the sound of this band - just bought the LP and still listen to it from time to time. btw - don't have any more the decent light grey suit and gown, for my first job interviews, I intentionally was looking after that day - but the LP still is here :-)
 sqqqrly wrote:
My dog's name is Zero (really).
 
No need to ask "Who saved who?" then. Props to you both!
Thought it was Allison Moyet at first 🤔🥴
This is an underrated 80s band, and one of the few who's music sounds of its day without sounding dated. I don't turn the dial when they come up. Thx for playing!
 mojoman wrote:
I was once saved by .000000001.

Close, but not quite, apparently.
 
If I were a DJ I would remix this song and call it "Saved By lim f(x) 1/x"
Big fan of the FIXX. They used electronic pop as a vehicle to express world views. Stand with them. Vote. Express your views. Help others.
 Grammarcop wrote:

This song is about Europe being in the middle of an escalating nuclear arms race between the U.S. and the USSR. "Saved by zero" refers to a nuke-free European continent. The policy proposal was known at the time as the Zero Option. 

I hope you still like it!
 

The Fixx seem to be  a more political group than you would expect.  Red Skies at Night and Stand or Fall are both hits of theirs that are about nuclear war/disarmament/plea for peace.  And my favorite song by them, Driven Out  is lyrically great piece about how horrible/lazy humans are when it comes to the environment.
A great show, one of my favorite bands from the 80s to dance to. And sing along with, when no one but the cat was listening. Good energy
1's and 0's
I just heard Bill say this was his 20th year of Radio Paradise. What a great accomplishment, congratulations! I've been a loyal listener for a good chunk of those and my life is better because of it.

 
 Grammarcop wrote:

This song is about Europe being in the middle of an escalating nuclear arms race between the U.S. and the USSR. "Saved by zero" refers to a nuke-free European continent. The policy proposal was known at the time as the Zero Option. 

I hope you still like it!

 Thanks, always wondered.


Bumped this up to 7
Now a commercial jingle for Verizon or some such...
 rpdevotee wrote:
??  Why are all the comments 10 years old here?  I have heard this song on RP within the past couple years and even commented on it within that time.  Am I in some sort of time machine?
 
If you're using the new site, just sort the song comments (at the top) to show Newest first. 
 okelle wrote:
I have no idea what this song is about and I don't care. I like it. Yes, sir, I like it.
 
This song is about Europe being in the middle of an escalating nuclear arms race between the U.S. and the USSR. "Saved by zero" refers to a nuke-free European continent. The policy proposal was known at the time as the Zero Option. 

I hope you still like it!
My dog's name is Zero (really).
??  Why are all the comments 10 years old here?  I have heard this song on RP within the past couple years and even commented on it within that time.  Am I in some sort of time machine?
Quintessential pop from the eighties... and 'pop' derives from 'popular'. Pop music is such because it is catchy, easily remembered and emotionally anchoring. I am a child of the sixties, but can recognize, and enjoy, music of any era. This is such a piece. I like it. No apologies offered.
 mojoman wrote:
I was once saved by .000000001.

Close, but not quite, apparently.
 

Saved by one billionth?   Did you win the lottery?

would that be 0.0?
I was once saved by .000000001.

Close, but not quite, apparently.
Excellent one album hit wonders! 

BTW, can September get here please? I want my Chumby that I'm going to win. :) 
keller1 wrote:
I'm guessin somebody didn't get laid enough in the 80s.
Maybe they were too busy "dating themselves"
keller1 wrote:
I'm guessin somebody didn't get laid enough in the 80s.
Or at all!
lokiwolf wrote:
The 80's sucked. That's it folks. And you poor souls that grew up in the 80's and were forced to accept that crap as "your music," what can i say. except, I am sorry. You are permanently brain and culturally damaged. You will never understand or appreciate real music. Sucky, cheap synthesizer will always thrill your self-centered ass. I appreciate the "unheard" sounds of the 80's; but GOD! please spare us the popular songs. There are Internet radio stations that specialize in 80's pop for those who suckle pap.
I'm guessin somebody didn't get laid enough in the 80s.
lokiwolf wrote:
(snip)And you poor souls that grew up in the 80's and were forced to accept that crap as "your music," what can i say. except, I am sorry. You are permanently brain and culturally damaged. You will never understand or appreciate real music. Sucky, cheap synthesizer will always thrill your self-centered ass.(snip)
Waaaaa haaa haaa haaa ha ha ha. Oh, thanks for that. I needed a good laugh. I love the last line. So "Catcher in the Rye". Heh ... I wonder if you even know what I mean.
horstman wrote:
I've heard so much dribble about how the 80s sucked on these boards. Give it a rest!! The 80s gave us R.E.M., U2, Smiths, Depeche Mode, The Cure, Echo and the Bunnyman, The Stone Roses, etc. etc. How many of these bands were played constantly on the Radio? Few, if any and certainly not Echo or the Stone Roses. What's the point here, folks. That until the advent and proliferation of the internet, we were all spawn fed music by radio stations which always played to the commercial interests of its viewing, buying audience. The same crap is played in the 90s, and the current decade. And there is still really good music generated during these periods to please the discerning listener (like you and me-well, me at least!). So before you derade the entire decade on representations like Flock of Seagulls, Wham, or Duran Duran, remember all of the excellent artists and styles that evolved during that period. Also remember that rock and roll does evolve. Music is getting better and better. And todays artists cut their teeth on the music they grew up with, most of which occured during the 70s and 80s.
You can also go through the pop of the 50s, 60s and 70s and point to some real stinkers ("come sail away with me, little run-away!"). Of course, we did have the mullet. That is not in our favor.
I saw these guys in concert once and I was entertained. The bass player had this minimized movement thing going. He just stood there and stared straight ahead for almost an hour. It was kind of funny.
Shesdifferent wrote:
I can't listen to this song without thinking of London
Huh. How about that. I was in England for most of the 80s so I think of England when I hear this album too. London was part of that for sure.
This is about a 9.4 so I rounded to 9. Great song. This was a weird one album his wonder of he 80s. But what an album. Thanks.
Don't mind 80's style music, but this ain't the best...
Shesdifferent wrote:
I can't listen to this song without thinking of London
Me too. ;)
Me too. I think those that hate the 80's need to go back and ask forgiveness for sleeping thru history class. The fall of the Berlin Wall, Russia withdrawing from Afganistan, the end of the Cold War, the rise of high-tech and the internet, the increase in the overall size of the middle and upper middle classes in the US, increased family income levels, improved music and arts and dance and ballet, massive political changes in China exemplified by Tianamen Square and the eventual rise of new freedoms in China, the first use of GUI on Mac's, man I could go on for pages. So to those who are too young to remember or to those who slept thru that decade, move on dude. THe 80's set the stage for the next 25 years and we are still seeing the benefits of the 80's today. Radio Paradise wouldn't be here if the tech advances that started in the 80's hadn't happened.
lokiwolf wrote:
The 80's sucked. That's it folks. And you poor souls that grew up in the 80's and were forced to accept that crap as "your music," what can i say. except, I am sorry. You are permanently brain and culturally damaged. You will never understand or appreciate real music. Sucky, cheap synthesizer will always thrill your self-centered ass. I appreciate the "unheard" sounds of the 80's; but GOD! please spare us the popular songs. There are Internet radio stations that specialize in 80's pop for those who suckle pap.
WTF flew up your privleged arse? Was there any room left up there next to your head? I didn't "grow up" much in college during the 80's, guess I still am growing up, (mebbe never will) but there's plenty of 80's music I still like. Plus music from the 20's, 30's, 40's, 50's, 60's, 70's, 90's and today. Never understand or appreciate real music? Good gawd. Shut up 'n stuff. Unless you're being satirical then congratulations; very nice post.
Really the best part of this tune, was the guitar work!
horstman wrote:
I've heard so much dribble about how the 80s sucked on these boards. Give it a rest!! The 80s gave us R.E.M., U2, Smiths, Depeche Mode, The Cure, Echo and the Bunnyman, The Stone Roses, etc. etc. How many of these bands were played constantly on the Radio? Few, if any and certainly not Echo or the Stone Roses. What's the point here, folks. That until the advent and proliferation of the internet, we were all spawn fed music by radio stations which always played to the commercial interests of its viewing, buying audience. The same crap is played in the 90s, and the current decade. And there is still really good music generated during these periods to please the discerning listener (like you and me-well, me at least!). So before you derade the entire decade on representations like Flock of Seagulls, Wham, or Duran Duran, remember all of the excellent artists and styles that evolved during that period. Also remember that rock and roll does evolve. Music is getting better and better. And todays artists cut their teeth on the music they grew up with, most of which occured during the 70s and 80s.
good point
Boosiewolf wrote:
Ahhhh...good one from the Way-Back Machine!
Ahhhh...good one from the Way-Back Machine!
bigtwistee wrote:
OK OK So the eighties sucked, I get it! Politically, socially, artistically, intellectually we were all unevolved self centered retards with bad fashion sense and the wrong pharmacology, and much of the music was repetitive and formulaic. I am so glad that modern music from this decade doesn't reflect any of these aspects of society.
I've heard so much dribble about how the 80s sucked on these boards. Give it a rest!! The 80s gave us R.E.M., U2, Smiths, Depeche Mode, The Cure, Echo and the Bunnyman, The Stone Roses, etc. etc. How many of these bands were played constantly on the Radio? Few, if any and certainly not Echo or the Stone Roses. What's the point here, folks. That until the advent and proliferation of the internet, we were all spawn fed music by radio stations which always played to the commercial interests of its viewing, buying audience. The same crap is played in the 90s, and the current decade. And there is still really good music generated during these periods to please the discerning listener (like you and me-well, me at least!). So before you derade the entire decade on representations like Flock of Seagulls, Wham, or Duran Duran, remember all of the excellent artists and styles that evolved during that period. Also remember that rock and roll does evolve. Music is getting better and better. And todays artists cut their teeth on the music they grew up with, most of which occured during the 70s and 80s.
True fans know that the songs played on the radio are not the true measure of this band. They do songs that nobody could cover. The tracks are laid out and themed, and the lyrics (mostly cliches) relate to everyday's challenges. I have seen them once a year for the past 12 years. What other band of this quality can you see for $10 front row and without buying tickets months ahead of time. The Fool, Deeper ane Deeper, Sunshine in the Shade, and the amazing Secret Separation (all 20 versions of it.) I do wish they would stop with the "Greatest Hits" and compilations. Although the 1011 Woodlands Acoustic set was simply stunning. Cheers, and happy listening!
Sounds like Tears for Fears
Saw the Fixx three years ago in a small club promoting their newest album "want that life". Really good show, they still sounded good and were really tight as a band. And I didn't see any hat making going on. As far as 80's music sucking, only the crap played on mainstream stations. There was far more diveristy in the music world then ever before or since. Betweeen punk, hardcore, new wave, metal, speed metal, industrial, and everything all that spawned, the diversity was far greater than what we have today. If you think it sucked, you weren't listening to the right stuff.
Nice song. lokiwolf wrote:
And you poor souls that grew up in the 80's and were forced to accept that crap as "your music," what can i say. except, I am sorry.
When you grew up you only listened to what the radio fed you?
djinnthespazz wrote:
Then why mention it?
There might be correlation between the hand gestures and his occupation(?).
Shesdifferent wrote:
I can't listen to this song without thinking of London
I can't hear this without thinking of worshiping the porcelain god.
Jack_Jefferson wrote:
(not that that makes any difference to me).
Then why mention it?
I can't listen to this song without thinking of London
A buddy of mine and his brother went to Cleveland a few years ago for a 1980's band reunion show. The idea, as described to me, sounded like a big waste of money and time (each band comes out plays a few of their hits and that's it). Anyway, he said he didn't like the Fixx that night because the lead singer was doing "some gay hand gesturing". I hear that Fixx guy designs womens' hats now. That seems kind of gay (not that that makes any difference to me).
Gregorama wrote:
I think it's from Reach the Beach. Have it on vinyl...
amymich wrote:
As do I! :D
And I!
Yup....plus all my love was 'tainted love',what can I say?
bigtwistee wrote:
OK OK So the eighties sucked, I get it! Politically, socially, artistically, intellectually we were all unevolved self centered retards with bad fashion sense and the wrong pharmacology, and much of the music was repetitive and formulaic.
The 80's sucked. That's it folks. And you poor souls that grew up in the 80's and were forced to accept that crap as "your music," what can i say. except, I am sorry. You are permanently brain and culturally damaged. You will never understand or appreciate real music. Sucky, cheap synthesizer will always thrill your self-centered ass. I appreciate the "unheard" sounds of the 80's; but GOD! please spare us the popular songs. There are Internet radio stations that specialize in 80's pop for those who suckle pap.
I saw these guys with Flock of Seagulls as a senior in high school - double your 80's New Wave pleasure! Was an OK show, I really liked both bands at the time. Gotta say my interest in the Fixx has dimmed over the years, I actually think a couple of Flock of Seagulls tunes (Wishing, Space Age Love Song) have held up better than the Fixx's hits (this one, One Thing Leads to Another). just my $0.04...
bigtwistee wrote:
OK OK So the eighties sucked, I get it! Politically, socially, artistically, intellectually we were all unevolved self centered retards with bad fashion sense and the wrong pharmacology, and much of the music was repetitive and formulaic. I am so glad that modern music from this decade doesn't reflect any of these aspects of society.
I appreciated that.
Damn. Missed it again.
hackbraten wrote:
uninspired amount of typical 80s sounds/licks/styles
OK OK So the eighties sucked, I get it! Politically, socially, artistically, intellectually we were all unevolved self centered retards with bad fashion sense and the wrong pharmacology, and much of the music was repetitive and formulaic. I am so glad that modern music from this decade doesn't reflect any of these aspects of society.
I have no idea what this song is about and I don't care. I like it. Yes, sir, I like it.
Just a great all around song. It brings me back to some VERY fond memories...AAHHH Class of 86' and all that good stuff! Hanging out at the tree, Walkman's, Duran Duran, Thompsan Twins, Max Headroom...We were such posers but didn't even care!
uninspired amount of typical 80s sounds/licks/styles
Shesdifferent wrote:
Love the Fixx
me 2
Pure garbage.
One of the few 80's bands that I still can listen to and like.
Pure boredom.
drife wrote:
Pure 80's drivel.
Just to counter-balance your negative comments, I admit this is one of my favorite songs of all time. I always thought this was about being saved by lack of an ego.
moodler wrote:
The Fixx have heaps of good songs - listen to some albums instead of just 80's hit mixes. Impeccable balance and groove. I love them. :-)
Don't forget possibly the dumbest video EVER for "One Thing Leads to Another". My friends and I have grown wrinkles from knitting our brows over that one!
amymich wrote:
As do I! :D
Might be thinking of "Red Skies at Night"
moodler wrote:
The Fixx have heaps of good songs - listen to some albums instead of just 80's hit mixes. Impeccable balance and groove.
That's my opinion as well.
Pure 80's drivel.
Gregorama wrote:
I think it's from Reach the Beach. Have it on vinyl...
As do I! :D
amymich wrote:
Link to album is wrong -- Saved by Zero isn't on that compliation...
I think it's from Reach the Beach. Have it on vinyl...
Link to album is wrong -- Saved by Zero isn't on that compliation...
The Fixx have heaps of good songs - listen to some albums instead of just 80's hit mixes. Impeccable balance and groove. I love them. :-)
A Saturday Morning redemption set to lift hurricane drenched spirits: Wondering Where The Lions Are, I Can See Clearly Now, She's A Rainbow, and Saved by Zero. Maybe, if we act kindly toward one another and don't give up, we will be OK after all. Thanks, RP, I actually do feel better!
How I wish Zero had never saved them... Big-time sucko-BAAAAARRRRRRFFFFFFFFFFo
Love the Fixx
cool tune... does anyone know if Cy Kernin is still designing women's hats? lol ~H
earthbased wrote:
See https://www.thefixx.net/showthread.php?threadid=2451
Thanks! That was great!
diane wrote:
Am I the only clueless person regarding the meaning of "Saved by Zero"? All these posts and not a single mention of the title's intent... Someone wanna help me out here? Muchas gracias~
See https://www.thefixx.net/showthread.php?threadid=2451
Ookla wrote:
80's crappola...
you say that so good...I got nuthin' to add.
Am I the only clueless person regarding the meaning of "Saved by Zero"? All these posts and not a single mention of the title's intent... Someone wanna help me out here? Muchas gracias~
Since I have nothing good to say about this, I will save my comments for later...
Whoa.....flachback... college... dime draws, dollar pitchers.... 5 bucks..... trashed by 9:00 PM! ...cranking the tunes back at the room.....
mwhip wrote:
Play more Fixx, one of the best groups of the 80's. :D
If you get a chance to see them in concert, do it. Great live band.
S-S-SSS-SS-SS-S-SS-SSSSSaved by Zero!
gregorbill wrote:
There is mad man lurking in this song, and he's playing the fretless bass.
This comment took 20 years of dust off this song for me. Thanks!
BobbyCat wrote:
Great choice! This is one on my favorites from the Fixx.
Ditto.
Great choice! This is one on my favorites from the Fixx.
Saw them live in 1999. I used to be a listener but that night turned me into a big fan. Watch for them in a bar near you; well worth it!
" Maybe I...WHAT??" Any Guesses? Lyrics? Good tune....an 8.
This is a very cool song...but what the hell is it about?
Ookla wrote:
80's crappola...
This one is Cap'n Crappola
There is mad man lurking in this song, and he's playing the fretless bass.
80's crappola...
The reason 'pop' is called such is because of its easy popular appeal. This does not automatically reduce it to the lowest common denominator. What it soed mean is that many many people enjoyed it. I have always liked the haunting melody of Saved by Zero, the implication of hope within despair expressed in the lyrics and the capability of the voices holding this song together.
The Fixx. One of the most underrated rock bands of the 80s.
what a dull period piece!
musicalbobs wrote:
The irony is, since you can't give things a null rating on RP, it has to get atleast a 1, and is saved by zero. Atleast, lack thereof. :)
touche!
veegez wrote:
There's nothing wrong with this song, or much of the 80's music for that matter, fashionable as it is to trash that genre. Question: If you dismiss the 80's as overproduced excess, are you automatically a person of distinguished music taste? Just curious. Discuss.
Lots of good ground breaking music came out of the 80's. Lots of fromage as well. (that's cheese). The whole underground scene, punk, New Wave. To dismiss a decade such as this is just ignorant. No one of distinguished music taste would issue a blanket statement like that.
The irony is, since you can't give things a null rating on RP, it has to get atleast a 1, and is saved by zero. Atleast, lack thereof. :)
I really wish the local car dealer didnt' use this for a 0% financing promotion jingle. forever somewhat ruined it for me.
DBCinCA wrote:
In defense of INXS, give "Shabooh Shabah" another listen.
INXS are the best band eva!! PWNED!!!!! oh sorry that was my emo listening cousin who wrote that
SuperWeh wrote:
Sounds a bit like INXS, only with more depth both musically and lyrically.
In defense of INXS, give "Shabooh Shabah" another listen.
There's nothing wrong with this song, or much of the 80's music for that matter, fashionable as it is to trash that genre. Question: If you dismiss the 80's as overproduced excess, are you automatically a person of distinguished music taste? Just curious. Discuss.
Sounds a bit like INXS, only with more depth both musically and lyrically.
Did not save it enough to get away from zero.
Yuck!! Sorry guys, NOT a fan.