The news of Joe Fagin’s passing was shared on the official Auf Wiedersehen, Pet social media account, expressing condolences to his family and friends while reminiscing about the cherished memories Joe brought to the show. Joe Fagin, a pop singer-songwriter, gained fame for his hit song “Breakin’ Away / That’s Livin’ Alright,” which played a pivotal role as the theme music for Auf Wiedersehen, Pet. He also lent his vocals to a rendition of “As Time Goes By” for the BBC comedy series of the same name in the 1990s, featuring Judi Dench and Geoffrey Palmer.
His iconic “Breakin’ Away / That’s Livin’ Alright” not only served as the opening and closing theme for Auf Wiedersehen, Pet but was also re-released on Channel 4 in 1996, further cementing its place in the hearts of fans. Upon hearing the news, fans took to social media to express their condolences, with many fondly recalling the impact of Joe’s music on their lives.
Joe’s song “Breakin’ Away / That’s Livin’ Alright” achieved significant success, reaching number three on the UK Singles Chart in 1984. He also found success in the United States with his single “Younger Days” and was part of The Crowd, which topped the charts with the charity single “You’ll Never Walk Alone” in response to the Bradford City stadium fire in 1985.
In a nod to the 2006 World Cup, a reworked version of “That’s Living Alright” was released as “That’s England Alright,” becoming an unofficial anthem. Auf Wiedersehen, Pet, a beloved comedy-drama, followed the adventures of seven British construction workers seeking employment abroad. These characters, hailing from various parts of the UK, shared a hut on a German building site as they escaped unemployment during the early 1980s in Thatcherite Britain. Joe Fagin’s contributions to the show’s soundtrack remain etched in the memories of its fans.
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