Life Begins at the Hop

Infobox Single
Name = Life Begins at the Hop


Artist = XTC
from Album =
Released = April 1979
Format =
Recorded =
Genre = Pop rock
Length = 3:46
Label = Virgin Records
Writer = Colin Moulding
Producer = Steve Lillywhite
Video director =
Certification =
Chart position =

• UK: #44 (1979)

Reviews =
Last single = "Are You Receiving Me?" (1978)
This single = "Life Begins at the Hop" (1979)
Next single = "Making Plans for Nigel" (1979)

"Life Begins at the Hop" is a single by XTC released in 1979. Their fifth single, it was the first indication of a change in their late-seventies sound from urgent post-punk to power pop. As their sound changed so too did their line-up as keyboardist Barry Andrews was replaced by second guitarist Dave Gregory prior to its recording. The song title references the 50s' rock 'n' roll classic "At The Hop"; indeed, the song itself carries a strong early rock 'n' roll influence.

It is also significant for being bassist Colin Moulding's first a-side composition for the group. With the single's Top Fifty placing it established his prominence within the group and even began a brief period where he was held in higher commercial esteem than XTC's more prolific leader Andy Partridge.

"Homo Safari", the b-side, was the first in Partridge's "Homo Safari Series", a six-part series of ambient, impressionistic instrumentals, considered to be some of his most experimental compositions.

Tracklisting

#"Life Begins at the Hop" (Colin Moulding) - 3:46
#"No.1 Homo Safari" (Andy Partridge) - 2:14