Rediscovering the Iconic Power of ‘I Touch Myself’- The Story Behind the Hit Song and Its Singers
Who sang “I Touch Myself”? This question has intrigued music enthusiasts and casual listeners alike for decades. The iconic song, known for its catchy melody and bold lyrics, was performed by the Australian rock band Divinyls. Released in 1990, the song became an international hit, propelling the band to fame and solidifying its place in the annals of rock music history.
The Divinyls, formed in Sydney, Australia, in 1980, consisted of lead singer Christina Amphlett, guitarist Mark McEntee, bassist Jeremy Paul, and drummer Richard Harvey. The band’s music was a blend of rock, pop, and new wave, and they gained popularity both domestically and internationally with their unique sound and energetic performances.
“I Touch Myself” was the band’s fourth single and the title track of their fourth album, also titled “I Touch Myself.” The song was written by Amphlett and produced by Ric Ocasek of The Cars. Its catchy chorus and bold lyrics, which talk about self-empowerment and self-love, struck a chord with audiences around the world.
The song’s music video, directed by Russell Mulcahy, featured Amphlett in a series of risqué and empowering scenes, which further contributed to the song’s popularity. The video was a sensation, and the song quickly climbed the charts in various countries, including the United States, where it reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Despite the song’s success, it faced criticism for its suggestive lyrics and the music video’s portrayal of Amphlett. However, the band and Amphlett stood by their message of self-empowerment and celebrated the song’s success.
Christina Amphlett passed away in April 2013 after a long battle with breast cancer. Her death sparked a renewed interest in the Divinyls and “I Touch Myself,” with many fans and celebrities paying tribute to her legacy. The song remains a powerful anthem for self-love and self-empowerment, and its enduring popularity is a testament to the Divinyls’ musical prowess and Amphlett’s charismatic stage presence.
