Mr. Mister’s “Black/White”

“Black/White” is a track from American rock band Mr. Mister’s 1984 debut album I Wear the Face. While not as widely known as their massive hits like “Broken Wings” or “Kyrie,” “Black/White” showcases the band’s characteristic blend of rock, pop, and new wave elements, driven by emotive lyrics and rich production.

Musically, “Black/White” features the same polished, melodic style that Mr. Mister became known for, with a mix of atmospheric synths, tight percussion, and guitar work. Lead vocalist Richard Page delivers a passionate performance, combining smooth vocals with the band’s signature pop-rock instrumentation. The song has a reflective, slightly moody tone, creating a sound that feels introspective yet dynamic.

Lyrically, “Black/White” deals with themes of contrast, dichotomy, and the complexities of human emotion and relationships. The title itself suggests the idea of opposites — light and dark, good and bad, clarity and confusion. While the lyrics can be interpreted in different ways, they touch on the tension between opposing forces in life and the gray areas that exist between them. Lines like “Living in the black and white, there’s no color in my life” hint at a sense of emotional struggle or longing for something deeper and more meaningful.

Although “Black/White” didn’t achieve the same level of commercial success as some of Mr. Mister’s later hits, it remains a solid example of their early work, offering a glimpse into the band’s evolving sound before they broke through with their second album, Welcome to the Real World.

For fans of Mr. Mister or those interested in exploring more of their discography beyond the major hits, “Black/White” is a track worth revisiting for its introspective lyrics and smooth, polished production typical of mid-80s rock.