Hazel O’Connor – Will You?

Released in 1981, “Will You?” is one of Hazel O’Connor’s most memorable songs and a key moment from the soundtrack to the film Breaking Glass, in which she starred as singer Kate. Written by O’Connor and saxophonist Wesley Magoogan, and produced and arranged by Tony Visconti, the recording was made at Good Earth Studios in London.

The song is an intimate, vulnerable portrayal of romantic uncertainty. O’Connor describes two people sitting together, each unsure whether the other wants to take their relationship further. Everyday details such as drinking coffee and tea make the situation feel wonderfully ordinary, while the gradually intensifying arrangement captures the nervous excitement of a potentially significant moment.

Musically, the track builds from a restrained ballad into an increasingly dramatic performance. O’Connor’s distinctive vocal gives the verses an almost conversational quality before the arrangement opens out. The defining feature is Magoogan’s extended alto saxophone solo, which became the emotional climax of the recording. His contribution was so significant that he later received formal recognition as a co-writer.

“Will You?” was actually written before Breaking Glass was made and was the only song on the soundtrack not specifically written for the film. Its combination of emotional honesty, dramatic arrangement and unforgettable saxophone makes it one of the most distinctive British ballads of the early Eighties.

The song peaked at No. 08 in the UK singles chart on the 20th June 1981.