Song: “Walking on Sunshine”

For a song the lead singer didn’t like and the bassist found annoying, “Walking on Sunshine” has redeemed itself over time, becoming one of EMI’s most lucrative songs since its release in 1985 through royalties earned for reuse in ads, television, and movies.

Just how lucrative has the song been?

In August 2015 — 30 years after it was released — the song was acquired by BMG Rights Management for £10 million.

The band agreed to divide royalties equally, so even the members who didn’t like the song originally might like it now.

“Walking On Sunshine” was written by Katrina & the Waves’ guitarist Kimberly Rew, the primary songwriter in the band. It is in Bb minor, and very upbeat.

It has been used a number of feature films, including The Secret of My Success, Bean: The Ultimate Disaster Movie, and American Psycho. Also, Jack Black’s character in High Fidelity plays it on a cassette tape.

Enjoy!