EURYTHMICS - SISTERS ARE DOIN’ IT FOR THEMSELVES

Released: October 1, 1985

Charted:  US: #18  UK: #9 

"Sisters Are Doin' It for Themselves" is a powerful feminist anthem by Eurythmics and Aretha Franklin. Written by Annie Lennox and David A. Stewart, it appears on both Eurythmics' "Be Yourself Tonight" and Franklin's "Who's Zoomin' Who?" albums. Originally intended as a collaboration with Tina Turner, the duo recorded with Franklin in Detroit due to Turner's unavailability. The track features contributions from members of Tom Petty's Heartbreakers, including Stan Lynch on drums, Benmont Tench on organ, and Mike Campbell on lead guitar, along with session bassist Nathan East.

"Sisters Are Doin' It for Themselves" proved to be a commercial success following its release as a single by RCA Records in October 1985. The song reached number 9 on the UK Singles Chart and number 18 on the US Billboard Hot 100. Additionally, the track received recognition with a nomination for a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.

Annie Lennox shared insights into the creation of "Sisters Are Doin' It For Themselves" in a 1991 interview with Q magazine. She described it as a challenge to craft a pop song that could serve as both a radio hit and a feminist anthem. Lennox recalled waking up one morning with the lyrics fully formed in her mind, envisioning the song's concept. She felt it required a powerful female vocalist to bring it to life and initially approached Tina Turner, although Turner ultimately declined due to the feminist content. Aretha Franklin expressed interest and Lennox, along with Dave Stewart, traveled to Detroit to collaborate with her. Despite not immediately connecting with Franklin, Lennox found her to be somewhat shy, lonely, and surrounded by an eccentric entourage, a departure from her usual experiences.

The music video was filmed at Detroit's Music Hall and features interspersed clips from old black and white films, including scenes from the 1962 movie "A Kind of Loving." Interestingly, the video uses the single version of the song rather than the album version.