HOWARD JONES - PEARL IN THE SHELL

Released: May 26, 1984

Charts:  UK: #7 

“Pearl in the Shell” is a single released as the fourth and final track from his debut album, “Human’s Lib”. The song reached #7 on the UK Singles Chart and features a saxophone solo by Davey Payne of Ian Dury’s band, the Blockheads.

Jones acknowledged the influence of 1970s music on the song, citing artists like Stevie Wonder, Earth Wind & Fire, Keith Emerson, and Little Feat as inspirations, as well as the work of Donald Fagen and Walter Becker of Steely Dan. Growing up in the ’70s, Jones blended these influences with his love for synthesizers to create a sound that bridges the styles of the ’60s, ’70s, and the emerging synth-pop genre of the ’80s.

“Pearl in the Shell” delves into themes of self-doubt, missed opportunities, and the internal barriers that prevent individuals from realizing their potential. The song uses vivid imagery to highlight how fear and hesitation can obscure the valuable aspects of life, symbolized by the “pearl in the shell.” Repeated phrases like “the fear goes on shadows” and “the tear flows on for nothing” suggest persistent anxiety and sadness without resolution. 

The lyrics “Under his nose was a dream come true / Been there all the time and he almost knew” emphasize how close people can be to achieving their goals while remaining unaware due to inner struggles. The line “Thoughts of people in misfortune stopped him doing things well” reflects how excessive focus on others’ suffering can sometimes paralyze rather than inspire action. The title serves as a metaphor for the undiscovered value within oneself waiting to be uncovered.