People Hold On

"People Hold On" is a song by British band Coldcut and singer-songwriter Lisa Stansfield, released as the first single from the band's debut album, What's That Noise? (1989). It was written by Matt Black, Jonathan More and Stansfield, and produced by Coldcut. The song received positive reviews from music critics and became a commercial success. It was released as a single on 13 March 1989 and reached number eleven on the UK Singles Chart and number six on the US Billboards Hot Dance Club Songs chart. The song was remixed by Blaze, Juan Atkins, Dimitri from Paris, Mark Saunders, Eric Kupper, Tyrone Perkins and Masters At Work. In 2003, "People Hold On" was included on Stansfield's compilation, Biography: The Greatest Hits. In 2006, Casuals Remix by Ceri Evans was included on Coldcut's album, Sound Mirrors (Videos & Remixes). In 2014, Full Length Disco Mix of "People Hold On" was included on Stansfield's People Hold On ... The Remix Anthology (also on The Collection 1989–2003). Chart performance "People Hold On" managed to make some impact on the charts in several countries. It peaked within the top 20 in the UK, where it made it to number eleven on 9 April 1989, in its fourth week at the UK Singles Chart. Additionally, the song was a top 30 hit in West Germany (24), a top 40 hit in Belgium (32) and the Netherlands (37), and a top 50 hit in France (45). On the Eurochart Hot 100, "People Hold On" reached its best position as number 26 in April 1989. Outside Europe, it peaked at number six on the US Billboard Dance Club Songs chart, while reaching number 37 in New Zealand and number 78 in Australia. Critical reception In an retrospective review, Matthew Hocter from Albumism described "People Hold On" as "an innovative dance track". Greg Kot from Chicago Tribune noted Stansfield's "elastic" voice. Tom Ewing of Freaky Trigger complimented her "as a house vocalist". He added, "Lisa Stansfield was a terrific find: she could play the belter with the best of them, but also provide a calm centre for Coldcut’s gleeful cut-and-mix pyrotechnics and pianos. Best of all, she sounded like she was having a tremendous time." A reviewer from Music & Media said, "An effective mixture of Stansfield's soul voice and a rare groove/house backing. Great dance track with a strong melody." Jerry Smith from Music Week declared it as "unforgettable".