Originally recorded in 1986, In 1988 Rea re-recorded "On the Beach" for his album New Light Through Old Windows and it was released as a single.

"On the Beach" was inspired by the Spanish island Formentera off the coast of Ibiza. Speaking to Songfacts, Rea said, "That's where me and my wife became me and my wife.

"That's what it's about. Yeah, I was 'between the eyes of love.' It's a lovely island if ever you're in Europe."

As one fan said: : 'This song puts a smile on my heart!'

Christopher Anton Rea is an English rock & blues singer-songwriter and guitarist from Middlesbrough, England.

He is of Italian and Irish descent. He is known for his distinctive, husky singing and slide guitar playing, with the Guinness Rockopedia describing him as a "Gravel-voiced guitar stalwart".

After learning to play the guitar relatively late, a short burst of local band activity led to his launching a solo career in 1978.

Rea has never toured the United States, where he is best known for the 1978 single "Fool (If You Think It's Over)," which reached No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and spent three weeks at No. 1 on the Adult Contemporary chart.

This success earned him a Grammy nomination as Best New Artist in 1978.

A decade later, 'Working On It' topped the Mainstream Rock chart.

As of 2009, Rea had sold more than 30 million records worldwide

Comments:

Paris

You know, one of the best things about being in my 50's now is that I lived my teenage years in the 80's, Priceless and I wouldn't change them for the world

GetTheYayo

Timeless song, 2021, I still get the goosebumps!

Amethyst70

I remember this being in the charts during the summer of 1988, and I was paying it all the way through the autumn and winter of that year too!!

Michele Wright

I just read that Chris is feeling unwell. I wanted to express my deepest appreciation to him for this beautiful song and amazingly perfect video that accompanies it. I've not walked a beach since without THIS song and the visuals playing in my head. Thank you Mr Rea, thank you 

Sam B

Chris is an understated genius. His songs evoke a melancholy mood and a longing for things past

garry hastings

That haunting voice, those lyrics.....it takes me back even after all these years. Great talent.

Gail Gonzales

Chris Rea your songs are etched on my heart and live in my soul!! Many thanks!!

Pauline Jackson

I've listened to Chris for years. You never get tired of him, wonderful.

Carlota Martins

Love, love to hear Chris Rea!!! Your music brings me such good mood! It feels my heart!

Appletosh Martin

It’s been almost 36 years since this song came out and it still sounds amazing, so sexy and relaxing. Still loving it in 2022!!!

Patrick Stocks

Between the eyes of love I call your name,

Behind the guarded walls I used to go,

Upon a summer wind there’s a certain melody,

Takes me back to the place that I know,

On the beach,

On the beach, yeah.

Heather Razey

I've loved this song for so many years and in 2022 still listening to it! Love Chris Rea, he has a great voice and this reminds me of lovely summer days of my youth! Will be a favourite always!

elaine & neil HUTCHINSON

Born in 1961. Have to agree, 1980’s music has never been surpassed. Kids kept me young, music wise in the 2000’s but never beat the 80’s.

50sVintage

I put this song on loop and listen to it, literally, all day long.  I never tire of it.  Chris Rea is musical genius; this video with the woman in orange is one of the best choreographed I've ever seen.  It's a brilliant video and extraordinary song.  Thank you, Chris Rea.

Carol Kozikowski

I've listened to this song so many times, never grow tired of it. I can close my eyes and imagine myself there. It's like a "Calvin, take me away" moment.

Rob Stammers

My all time Chris Rea song, so evocative, relaxing and absolutely timeless. Hope you're keeping well Chris, love ya man.

Patrick Leclercq

This intro is legendary and the rest of the song is just as bewitching bringing back sweet memories to all those who listen to it . Such a Masterpiece !

Drew Lee

Breathtaking and magical music. Remember this fondly from many moons ago. Not just a musician, but an artist!

3UZFE

This is probably one of the happiest most relaxing songs I've ever heard.

Carlota Martins

This song puts a smile on my heart!