Bananarama - Robert De Niro's Waiting 12''

Originally titled “Al Pacino’s Waiting” the song was actually about a girl who is date raped and fantasizes about Robert De Niro as a means of escape from the trauma. Released as the second single from their self-titled second album in February 1984, "Robert De Niro's Waiting" was the follow-up single to "Cruel Summer". Reading a 1984 review of Bananarama’s second album the trio are compared to the Go-Go’s with a wet, or at least damp, blanket thrown over them. Now whether the reviewer was referring to the Go-Go’s with a wet blanket, or Bananarama, nobody knows. He did however realise that what makes this a worthwhile package, is the splendid, energizing Robert De Niro’s Waiting and ends with the quote “rock ‘n’ roll is its own excuse for being, and this tune is an unapologetic, unabashed good time”.

Released in 1984 on London Records (catalogue number NANX 6), the Bananarama - Robert De Niro's Waiting 12-inch single is a highly sought-after collector's item. The record features an extended 5:43 mix of the synth-pop hit on Side A, backed by the track "Push!" and an unlisted, hidden two-minute instrumental track known as "Link" on Side B. Beyond the standard black vinyl, the UK release famously included three limited-edition translucent coloured vinyl pressings—pink, green, and blue—each featuring a large, matching picture label dedicated to a specific band member (Keren, Siobhan, or Sara).

"Robert De Niro's Waiting..." stands as a defining masterpiece of 1980s British synth-pop, masterfully blending infectious hooks with unexpectedly dark lyrical themes. Produced by the legendary trio of Jolley & Swain, the track elevates Bananarama’s signature unison vocals above a lush backdrop of dramatic synthesizers, sharp drum machine beats, and a memorable, melancholic guitar hook. While the radio edit captures the immediate pop brilliance of the song, this 12-inch extended version truly lets the arrangement breathe. It expands the atmospheric introduction and stretches the danceable groove, giving the narrative of teenage anxiety and cinematic escapism a much grander, more immersive canvas.

The B-side of the single enhances its value, transforming the release from a standard pop record into a fascinating artifact for collectors. The driving, energetic rhythm of "Push!" showcases the trio's edgier, club-oriented sound, but the real highlight is the unlisted, hidden instrumental track colloquially known as "Link." This atmospheric, experimental interlude provides a moody contrast to the sleek pop of the A-side. Combined with the legendary, highly collectable translucent coloured vinyl pressings, this 12-inch single is not just a nostalgia trip, but a essential, top-tier showcase of Bananarama at the absolute peak of their creative and visual powers.

Originally ripped by DjPaulT and presented here in MP3 @ 320kbps

Bananarama; Robert De Niro’s Waiting…12”

A.     Robert De Niro's Waiting (Extended Version)

B1.  Untitled

B2.  Push!